Development, Longevity and Fecundity of the False Wireworms Pterohelaeus-Darlingensis and Pterohelaeus-Alternatus (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) .4. Models for Larval and Pupal Development Under Fluctuating Temperatures

Abstract

The usefulness of models derived from constant-temperature rearing in predicting development of larvae and pupae of Pterohelaeus darlingensis Carter and P, alternatus Pascoe under fluctuating temperature was determined. In general, these models underestimated development. The magnitude of the difference was proportional to the length of the development period and, by inference, negatively related to the temperatures experienced. New models were developed with data from individuals reared under fluctuating temperatures. The linear model gave better predictions of development under ambient conditions than did the curvilinear Stinner model for pupae of P. darlingensis, but both models gave similar predictions for larvae of both species. Development of P. alternatus pupae was still underestimated by both models. Substantial discrepancies between observed and expected development of individuals reared under a regimen incorporating a long period at low temperatures indicate that such a regimen is deleterious. Given the considerable variability in development rates between individuals, a stochastic model may predict development more accurately.