Effects of Low Temperature Storage on Fecundity and Adult Mortality for the Alfalfa Snout Beetle, Otiorhynchus Ligustici (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Authors

Elson J. Shields, Cornell University
Antonio M. Testa, Cornell University

Document Type

Peer-Review Article

Abstract

The alfalfa snout beetle, Otiorhynchus ligustici L. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), was introduced into the United States from Europe via wooden sailing ships carrying soil as ballast, was first reported in New York State in 1896 at the Port of Oswego and was first recorded as a pest of alfalfa when alfalfa was introduced into the area in the area. In subsequent years, this flightless and partheno- genetic insect has spread to nine Northern New York counties, infested over 200,000 hectares of cropland and has become the most serious pest of alfalfa in northern New York State. Research requires the availability of all life stages for an extended period of time. With a 2-year lifecycle and a mandatory diapause, the artificial rearing of a laboratory culture appears to be a non-viable option. Since the adults can be collected in the spring in large numbers, long term cold storage of adults would provide an extended window where all life stages would be available for laboratory and greenhouse research. A series of experimental storage regimes were developed and newly emerged beetles were placed under those regimes for extended periods of time. The impact of the storage conditions was measured by mortality and fecundity when compared to a control group. Generally, beetles survived better in storage at the colder temperatures. Beetles allowed to feed seven days before storage generally survived better than unfed beetles. In most cases, any length of storage reduced the number of eggs laid compared to the control group. Beetles survived for more than 300 days in storage and when warmed up, consumed food and laid viable eggs.

Recommended Citation

Shields, Elson J. and Testa, Antonio M. 2011. "Effects of Low Temperature Storage on Fecundity and Adult Mortality for the Alfalfa Snout Beetle, Otiorhynchus Ligustici (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)," The Great Lakes Entomologist, vol 44 (1)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.22543/0090-0222.2215
Available at: https://scholar.valpo.edu/tgle/vol44/iss1/2