The development and survival of the immature stages of the lesser mealworm Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) were studied at four constant temperatures (22°C, 25°C, 28°C, and 31°C). The development was completed at all temperatures. At 22°C, longer development period and lower survival were observed. The optimal temperature was 31°C which promoted shorter development and higher survival. The basal temperature and thermal constant for egg, larva and pupa development were: 17.8°C, 19.2°C, and 16.5°C and 40.09, 239.48 and 59.56 degree-days, respectively.
Insecta; temperature threshold; life cycle; degree-days
