Some life table parameters of the aphid, Brachycaudus cardui L. on Artichoke, Cynara scolymus L. in laboratory conditions

Artichoke، Cynara scolymus is an important medicinal plant and Brachycaudus cardui L. is one of its key pests in early season. Biology and life table parameters of this aphid was investigated in laboratory conditions of 22 ± 2°C، 60 ± 5% RH، and a photoperiod of LD 14:10. The experiment was carried out by rearing 20 aphid nymphs in leaf cages and their mortality and reproduction rate was recorded daily. The results indicated mean reproduction period and mean generation time as 12. 75 ± 0. 26 and 18. 92 days، respectively. Mean longevity of the aphid was 33. 70 ± 1. 01 days. There was not any mortality in nymphal development period. Mortality rate was very low in young adult stage as well. Maximum death rate (0. 67) occurred in 32-38 days of age. Life expectancy of aphid was estimated at 33. 03 days in 1st instar nymph stage and decreased gradually in a constant rate. The results of this study revealed high longevity and slow mortality trend in aphid population.