Age-grading adult insects: a review of techniques

Abstract.The range of techniques available for age-grading adult insects is reviewed, with particular emphasis on species of medical and veterinary importance. Chronological and physiological age-grading are discussed, considering the relative merits of each approach. The techniques described include those based on changes to the reproductive system, those relying on somatic changes and those dependent on cuticular degradation. The advantages and problems of each technique and the use of a number of techniques in combination are discussed.