Biology and fertility life table parameters of the aphid, Brachycaudus cardui L. on Cynara scolymus L. in laboratory condition

Life table parameters of Brachycaudus cardui L. (Hom.: Aphididae) on Cynara scolymus L. (Asteraceae) was investigated in laboratory condition at 22±2°C, 65±5% RH, and a photoperiod of LD 14:10. To this end, 20 aphid nymphs were reared in leaf cages and mortality and reproduction rate were recorded daily. The result 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. Life expectancy of the aphid was estimated at 33.03 days in 1st instar nymph stage and decreased gradually in a constant rate. Intrinsic rate of increase (rm), Net reproductive rate (R0) and Doubling time (DT) as 0.175 (per days), 27.15 (offspring), 3.97 (day) and Finite rate of increase (λ) 1.19 (day), respectively. The results of this study revealed high longevity and slow mortality trend in this aphid population on C. scolymus.