Development of Aphelinus mali an endoparasitoid of woolly apple aphid, Eriosoma lanigerum at different temperatures

Developmental times for both sexes of Aphelinus mali (Haldeman) (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) an endoparasitoid of woolly apple aphid, Eriosoma lanigerum (Hausmann) (Hemiptera: Pemphigidae) were studied at 13, 15, 18, 20, 25 and 30 °C and compared with those of E. lanigerum. Mean developmental times ranged from 11.7–53.3 days for males, 11.8–55.4 days for females and 11.8–54.4 days for both sexes combined and were significantly inversely related to temperature. A good linear model fit (r2 > 0.99) between developmental rate and temperature in the range 13–30 °C was observed. Results indicate significant differences between developmental times of males and females at 13, 18, 20, and 25 °C but no differences at 15 and 30 °C. The notional developmental threshold was 8.3 °C for both males and females. Compared with its host, A. mali has a higher lower developmental threshold. An average of 252.8, 256.7 and 254.8 degree‐days (DD) above the lower threshold were required by A. mali to complete development from time of oviposition to adult emergence for males, females and both sexes combined, respectively. Field experimentation also indicated that the developmental time of A. mali lags significantly behind that of its aphid host throughout the year. These findings are discussed in relation to its status as a biological control agent for E. lanigerum.