A Study on the Life Table of the Fruit Borer (Helicoverpa armigera) on Chilli

Abstract

The overall duration necessary for the life cycle to progress from eggs to the emergence of adults ranged from 33 to 44 days, with an average of 38.5 ± 7.78 days. In contrast, the complete life cycle from eggs to the death of both male and female was observed to be finalized within 39 to 52 days, averaging 45.5 ± 9.19 days for males and 40 to 53 days, averaging 46.5 ± 9.19 days for females. Specifically, the time required for egg hatching was approximately 3 to 4 days, with an average of 3.5 days. The total larval stage lasted about 17 to 23 days, averaging 20 days, while the pre-pupal phase took 1 to 2 days, averaging 1.5 days. The pupal stage lasted around 12 to 15 days, with an average of 13.5 days. The pre-oviposition period extended from 2 to 5 days, averaging 3.5 days, and the oviposition period lasted 5 to 7 days, with an average of 6 days. The post-oviposition period was about 1 to 2 days, averaging 1.5 days. The longevity of adult males and females varied slightly depending on food availability. Males with food lived for approximately 6 to 8 days, averaging 7 days, while females survived for about 7 to 9 days. Males without food had a lifespan of about 1 to 2 days, averaging 1.5 days, whereas females lived for about 1 to 3 days, with an average of around 2 days. The total life cycle duration for male moths with food was between 39 to 52 days, averaging 45.5 days, while the total life cycle for female moths with food ranged from 40 to 53 days, averaging 46.5 days.