Life Table Parameters and Intrinsic Rate of Increase of Dysaphis tulipae (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on Tulip Bulbs

Abstract

Dysaphis tulipae (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is an important aphid pest associated with tulip cultivation, where it causes economic damage through sap feeding, weakening of bulbs, reduced plant vigor, and transmission of plant pathogens. Rapid reproduction and favorable environmental adaptation enable this aphid to establish large populations within bulb production systems, thereby affecting bulb quality and commercial value. Understanding the demographic characteristics and population growth potential of D. tulipae is essential for predicting outbreaks and improving pest management strategies. The present study was conducted to evaluate the life table parameters and intrinsic rate of increase of D. tulipae on tulip bulbs under controlled environmental conditions. Laboratory experiments were performed to assess developmental duration, survival rate, longevity, fecundity, and reproductive performance across different developmental stages of the aphid. Age-specific survival and fecundity data were used to construct life tables and estimate key population parameters including intrinsic rate of increase, finite rate of increase, net reproductive rate, doubling time, and mean generation time. The results demonstrated that D. tulipae successfully completed its life cycle on tulip bulbs and exhibited high reproductive potential under favorable conditions. Developmental duration varied among immature stages, while adult females showed high fecundity and extended reproductive periods that contributed substantially to rapid population growth. Life table analysis indicated a high intrinsic rate of increase and short generation time, suggesting the ability of the aphid to establish outbreaks within a short period. Environmental conditions such as temperature and host quality strongly influenced survival and reproductive performance. The findings highlight the suitability of tulip bulbs as a favorable host for D. tulipae multiplication and emphasize the importance of demographic studies in understanding aphid population dynamics. This study provides valuable baseline information for developing integrated pest management strategies aimed at reducing aphid infestations and minimizing economic losses in tulip bulb production systems.