Threshold Temperatures and Thermal Requirements for the Development of Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Developmental thresholds and thermal requirements for different stages of Spodoptera litura (F.) fed on groundnut leaves were determined under constant laboratory conditions and in the field. An average of 64 degree-days (DD) above a threshold of 8°C was required from oviposition to egg hatch; the larval period required 303 DD and pupal stage 155 DD above a 10°C threshold; females needed 29 DD above a 10.8°C threshold from emergence to oviposition. Fifth and sixth instars accounted for about 50%of the total larval requirement under laboratory and field conditions. The response of various stages of S. litura to temperatures under constant laboratory conditions was similar to that under field conditions. The upper developmental threshold temperature of all stages was 37°C; 40°C was lethal.