Development and Fecundity of Anarsia lineatella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) on Peach Under Fluctuating Temperature Regimes

Abstract

Development and fecundity of Anarsia lineatella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) on peach were evaluated under fluctuating temperature regimes to understand the influence of thermal variability on its biological performance and population dynamics. Laboratory experiments were conducted using controlled environmental chambers programmed to simulate fluctuating day–night temperature cycles representative of field conditions. Developmental duration, survival rate, pupation success, adult longevity, and fecundity were recorded across larval and adult stages. Results indicated that fluctuating temperatures significantly influenced the developmental biology of A. lineatella, with moderate thermal variability supporting optimal growth and reproductive performance. Increased temperature fluctuations accelerated immature development up to an optimal range, beyond which survival and fecundity declined due to thermal stress. Females reared under favorable fluctuating regimes exhibited higher oviposition rates and greater reproductive output compared to those exposed to extreme fluctuations. Adult longevity was also affected, with reduced lifespan observed under unstable thermal conditions. The study highlights that temperature variability, rather than constant conditions, more accurately reflects field ecology and strongly governs pest population potential. These findings emphasize the importance of incorporating fluctuating environmental parameters into predictive models of pest outbreaks. The results provide valuable insights for optimizing integrated pest management strategies targeting A. lineatella in peach orchards under changing climatic conditions.