Effects of Temperature and Larval Diet on Development of the Fall Armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

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Abstract
The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), was reared at seven constant temperatures ranging from 17 to 38°C on an artificial diet, corn (Zea mays L.), and cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Developmental rates, survival, pupal weights, and number of stadia varied among diets. Both linear and nonlinear models of developmental rate as a function of temperature were developed for eggs, each instar, the entire larval stage, and pupae on each diet. Eggs hatched at all temperatures. Larvae completed development on all diets at all temperatures except 38°C. Both larval and pupal rate of development declined between 33 and 35.5°C. Developmental thresholds were similar for all developmental categories on all diets observed and averaged 12.95 ± 0.21°C. In general, the number of stadia increased at temperatures below 25°C. Mean pupal weight increased with increases in number of stadia, but the differences were not statistically significant. Additional stadia generally result in an increase in total developmental time. Larvae took longer to develop, attained a lower pupal weight, and required a greater number of stadia on cotton than on artificial diet or corn.