This research deals with a rearing technique for the citrus leafminer, Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton, as well as the evaluation of the effect of seven temperatures (18, 20, 22, 25, 28, 30 and 32 ± 1ºC) in laboratory conditions (60 ± 10% RH, 14 h photofase) on the insect immature stages. Young plants of Citrus limonia L. Osbeck used as hosts for P. citrella were suitable for the continuous rearing of this insect in the laboratory, and also for the production of its natural enemies, because it is possible to synchronize the production of both ones by varying the pest development according to the different temperatures The best temperature for egg development is 30ºC, while the best one for the larval and pupal stages is 32ºC.
Insecta; citrus leafminer; pest; bioecology
