Biological parameters of Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) exposed to lethal and sublethal concentrations of Calypso®

Efficacy of the neonicotinoid insecticide, Calypso® was studied on eggs, nymphs and adults of Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood, using a leaf disc bioassay method. Concentrations from 0.15 to 0.8 ml/l were applied by systemic-contact method. Nymphs were more susceptible than eggs and adults, and LC50 and LC30 values were estimated to be 0.465 and 0.263 ml/l, respectively. Also, the longevity and fecundity of exposed females was reduced compared to control. Moreover, the demographic parameters were adversely influenced compared to control. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm) was significantly decreased to 0.132 and 0.139 day-1 at LC50 and LC30 level, compared to control (0.152 day-1). Other life table parameters (R0, λ, T, and DT) were also significantly lower in the treated insects. Sublethal concentrations of Calypso® may reduce the insecticide residuals on greenhouse crops and reduce the resistance development in greenhouse whiteflies. Therefore, these concentrations may be applicable in the management of T. vaporariorum after complementary studies.