Biology of Asphadastis <I>Cryphomycha meyrick</I> (Lepidoptera : Pyralidae) on Poplar in Punjab

Abstract

Biology of Asphadastis cryphomycha Meyrick was studied on Populus deltoides under screen house conditions. Duration of the egg stage ranged from 4.40 to 6.90 days during different months. Total larval period, prepupal and pupal period varied from 12.60 ± 0.15 to 19.10 ± 0.17, 2.20 ± 0.15 to 89.60 ± 0.65 (December to March), and 4.60 ± 0.15 to 8.20 ± 0.81 days. The adults emerged during 23.00 to 4.00 hours (24 hour time). Longevity of females was more than males. The average fecundity ranged from 22.60 ± 2.18 to 49.60 ± 7.36 eggs during different months. The pre-oviposition, oviposition and post-oviposition periods were recorded. The webber passed through eight generations per year. Leaf area fed by the larval instars has been worked out. Detailed measurements of the various stages were recorded.