Biology and life table parameters of Nabis pseudoferus by feeding on cotton aphid Aphis gossypii

Predatory damsel bug, Nabis pseudoferus Remane has a high density in the alfalfa fields and feeds on different types of prey. In this study, biological properties and life table statistics of N. pseudoferus by feeding on melon aphids have been determined under controlled conditions (at 25±1˚C, 60±10% relative humidity and under a photoperiod of 16h light/ 8h dark). Data analysis carried out based on age-stage two sex life table program. The results indicated that the mean duration of eggs, 1st instar, 2nd instar, 3rd instar, 4th instar, 5th instar nymphs and adult longevity was 9.00±0.05, 2.89±0.02, 2.86±0.02, 3.10±0.03, 3.67±0.03, 5.87±0.05 and 19.47±0.52, days respectively. Life table statistics include r, R0, GRR, λ and T were estimated as 0.06±0.002 day-1, 16.39±1.99 eggs/individual, 59.58±6.16 eggs/individual, 1.07±0.002 day-1 and 43.97±0.31days, respectively. The death and birth rates for this predator by feeding on melon aphid were determined 0.02 and 0.08, respectively. With regard to predatory habit of most life stages of N. pseudoferus and longevity of adults, this predator could be considered as a potential candidate for reducing cotton aphid populations.