Abstract
The effect of colonization, crowding, and starvation on the development of cabbage looper, Trichoplusia ni, was investigated. Differences in development time, pupal weight, mortality rate, and adult longevity between a laboratory and field colony were minimal. These differences are believed to be correctable through minimization of selection and precautions against pathogenic contamination during rearing, as well as, regular introduction of field collected insects into the laboratory colony. Stress produced by larval crowding and starvation in the laboratory colony produced a longer development time, increased mortality, and reduced pupal weight. Cannabalism of larvae, prepupae, and pupae was noted at higher crowding and starvation (stress) levels. Increased adult longevity at higher stress levels was also observed.