In this study, we determined the influence of fluctuating temperatures on the development and fecundity of the bean bug Riptortus pedestris (Fabricius) (Hemiptera: Alydidae) by collecting life table data for individuals exposed at a constant temperature (24 °C) and three fluctuating temperatures (24 ± 4 °C, 24 ± 6 °C, and 24 ± 8 °C). The raw life history data were analyzed using an age-stage, two-sex life table to take into account the viable development rate among individuals. Based on these analyses, the population projections enabled us to determine the stage structure and variability of population growth under different temperature treatments. Our results revealed shorter periods of immature development and a higher pre-adult survival rate at 24 ± 6 °C than under the other assessed temperature conditions. Furthermore, significant reductions in female longevity were recorded at 24 °C, whereas the fecundity, net reproductive rate, and intrinsic and finite rates of increase were highest at 24 ± 6 °C. These findings reveal that fluctuating temperatures have a positive influence on the life history traits of R. pedestris and indicate that observations made under constant temperatures may not explain sufficiently enough the temperature dependent biological performances of pests in the field.
Keywords: Riptortus pedestris; life table; population projection; temperature.