A dynamic model of larval Mexican bean beetle survival as a function of body water balance

Abstract. This paper presents evidence of the relationship between survival and body water content in the Mexican bean beetle, Epilachna varivestis Mulsant (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). Results of a simulation model for dynamically describing water balance and survival are compared with experimental data for the Mexican bean beetle feeding on both lima bean and soybean under different variable temperature and moisture regimes.