Sex-dependent thermal history influences cold tolerance, longevity and fecundity in false codling moth Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

Abstract

Environmental temperature plays a critical role in the field performance of mass-reared insects. For sterile insect technique programmes, the influence of larval (developmental) temperature variation on subsequent adult field performance is generally poorly understood but may be a significant avenue for increasing efficacy. In the present study, we investigated the influence of larval thermal acclimation on several traits of adult performance in the false codling moth Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick). After larvae were reared at 15, 20 or 25 °C for their full larval developmental period, we determined the effect of different acute (2 h) temperature treatments (10, 15 or 20 °C) during the adult stage on traits of (i) cold tolerance; (ii) fecundity; and (iii) longevity. Cold tolerance of adults was not influenced by larval acclimation temperature but was affected by sex and adult treatment temperature. Adult fecundity and longevity were affected by larval acclimation temperature, adult treatment temperature and the interaction of these factors with sex. These results suggest a complex, sex-dependent interplay of short- and longer- term temperature history across developmental stages for these traits. Exploring the field impacts of this trait variation is essential, coupled with information on how these traits might respond to artificial manipulation.

Publication Title

Agricultural and Forest Entomology

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