Population dynamics of four species of Geocoris in the peanut agroecosystem.

Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Davis, David Lee, 1948-
Other Authors: Burke, H. R. (degree committee member.), Gilstrap, F. E. (degree committee member.), Smeins, F. E. (degree committee member.)
Format: Thesis Book
Language:English
Published: 1981.
Subjects:
Online Access:Link to ProQuest Copy
Link to OAKTrust copy
Description
Abstract:The effect of temperature on development, survivorship, reproductivity, and longevity of Geocoris pallens Stal, Geocoris punctipes (Say), Geocoris uliginosus (Say), and Geocoris lividipennis Stal was studied at a series of constant temperatures ranging from 18.3(DEGREES)C to 43.3(DEGREES)C. Data from these investigations were used to calculate certain population statistics (i.e. T(,c), R(,o), r(,c), and R(,c)) for the various species. Temporal distribution of the four species of Geocoris was observed during three growing seasons (1977-1979) in peanut fields located in Comanche and Eastland counties, Texas. Life tables were constructed for both laboratory and field cohorts of Geocoris. Geocoris pallens completed development between 21.1(DEGREES)C-37.8(DEGREES)C; G. punctipes between 21.1(DEGREES)C-35.0(DEGREES)C; and G. uliginosus and G. lividipennis between 23.9(DEGREES)C-37.8(DEGREES)C. Developmental times for each life stage varied inversely with temperature, and developmental thresholds varied for each life stage. Survivorship of G. punctipes was more favorable below 32.2(DEGREES)C; whereas, survival of G. pallens and G. uliginosus was greater at temperatures above 32.2(DEGREES)C. Geocoris lividipennis appeared to be the least affected by changes in temperature but had the greatest mortality of the four species regardless of the temperature.
Item Description:"Major subject: Entomology."
Typescript (photocopy).
Vita.
Physical Description:xvi, 166 leaves : illustrations ; 29 cm
Bibliography:Includes bibliographical references (leaves 157-165).