Thermal Biology and Development of Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) at Constant Temperatures

Abstract

Temperature is a major environmental factor influencing the development, survival, reproduction, and population dynamics of insect pests in agricultural ecosystems. The present study investigated the thermal biology and developmental responses of Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) under different constant temperature conditions in controlled laboratory environments. Developmental duration, survival rate, pupation, adult emergence, fecundity, and longevity were evaluated across a range of constant temperatures to determine the thermal requirements and biological performance of the pest. The results demonstrated that temperature significantly affected all developmental stages of T. absoluta. Developmental duration from egg to adult decreased progressively with increasing temperatures up to an optimum level, while extreme high temperatures negatively affected survival and reproductive capacity. Higher temperatures accelerated larval and pupal development, resulting in shorter generation times and increased population growth potential. Conversely, lower temperatures prolonged developmental periods and reduced feeding activity and reproductive performance. Survival rates were highest under moderate temperature conditions, indicating favorable thermal ranges for optimal pest development. Thermal thresholds and degree-day requirements estimated from developmental data provided valuable information for predicting seasonal population dynamics and outbreak potential of T. absoluta in tomato production systems. The findings highlight the strong influence of temperature on the biological performance of this invasive pest and emphasize the importance of climatic factors in its population ecology. This study contributes useful information for forecasting pest occurrence and improving integrated pest management strategies through temperature-based monitoring and timely intervention practices.