Telenomus reynoldsi Gordh & Coker parasitizing Geocoris punctipes (Say) eggs, and nonparasitized G. punctipes eggs, were reared at eight constant temperatures (15-35°C) and six relative humidities (25-100% RH) to determine the influence of temperature and humidity on survival and developmental time. Parasitoid survival was significantly reduced by low and high temperatures at all humidities. Survival was highest between 50 and 85% RH. Survival of nonparasitized G. punctipes eggs was reduced by low and high temperatures at 25 and 50% RH and by high temperatures at 60% RH, but was independent of temperature above 75% RH. Male T. reynoldsi emerged earlier than females at most temperature and humidity combinations. Mean rate of development for T. reynoldsi and G. punctipes eggs increased linearly between 18 and 30°C, with optimal development at 33°C for T. reynoldsi and at 33-35°C for G. punctipes eggs. Mean developmental time of both parasitoid and host decreased with increasing humidity. Estimates of lower developmental thresholds were 14.4°C for T. reynoldsi and 15.1°C for G. punctipes eggs. Estimates of average thermal requirements for male and female parasitoids and nonparasitized hosts were 157, 163, and 107 Celsius degree days, respectively.
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Cave et al. (1988) studied this question.
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