The effect of heat stress on the survival of the rose grain aphid, Metopolophium dirhodum (Hemiptera: Aphididae)

• Main Authors: Chun-Sen MA, Bernhard HAU, Hans-Michael POEHLING
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Institute of Entomology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Science 2004-06-01
• Series: European Journal of Entomology
• Subjects: metopolophium dirhodum; high temperature; survival; dropping off; global warming
• Online Access: https://www.eje.cz/artkey/eje-200402-0018_the_effect_of_heat_stress_on_the_survival_of_the_rose_grain_aphid_metopolophium_dirhodum_hemiptera_aphididae.php

The rose grain aphid, Metopolophium dirhodum (Walker) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is one of the three most important cereal aphid species in Europe. High temperature is detrimental for the survival of this species. Detailed experiments were conducted on the effect of high temperature (27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 31.5, 32.5, 33 and 34°C), period of exposure (2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 h per day for 1, 2, 4, 6 days) and developmental stage (2nd, 3rd, 4th instar nymph and adult) on the survival of the aphid. The results show that all three factors significantly affect survival. Temperatures over 29°C for 8 h significantly reduced survival, which decreased generally as the temperature increased. The survival was inversely related to the period of exposure. Exposing aphids to 32.5°C for 4 h or longer significantly reduced survival. Mature aphids had a lower tolerance of high temperatures than nymphs. Periods of high temperature experienced by 4th instar and adult aphids can greatly affect their survival. The value of these results for forecasting and determining control thresholds, the effect of global warming on cereal aphid abundance and the dropping off behaviour of the aphids are discussed.