The Effect of Density on Some Population Parameters of Rhodnius Prolixus (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) Under Laboratory Conditions

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Abstract
Rhodnius prolixus was reared at 7 nymphal instar densities and 5 adult densities, ranging from 2 to 128 individuals per 3.8-1 jar, and kept under laboratory conditions at 37 °C and 80% RH. Dead individuals were replaced by marked ones to keep density constant. Estimates of mortality, percentage molting and developmental time were obtained for immature stages, and longevity and fecundity estimates were obtained for the adults. From the results, we concluded that: (a) density has a statistically significant effect on the developmental rate of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th nymphal instars of R. prolixus, but not on the nymphal survivorship; (b) there docs not seem to be a density effect on either instantaneous population parameters or age-specific parameters; (c) considering that the highest densities used in our experiments are well above natural densities, this population is probably limited by the independent or combined action of dispersal and natural enemies.