Comparing life table parameters of Brachycaudus cardui (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on artichoke under laboratory and semi-field conditions

Life table parameters of Brachycaudus cardui L. (Hemiptera: Aphididae) feeding on the host plant, Cynara scolymus L. (Artichoke) were studied under laboratory (22 ± 1°C, relative humidity of 65 ± 5% and a photoperiod of 14L : 10D h) and semi-field conditions (22 – 34°C, and relative humidity of 25 – 70%). Under laboratory condition, B. cardui reared on artichoke had a higher survival rate, fecundity, and longevity than those reared under semi-field condition. When B. carduireared under semi-field condition, they had a longer nymphal developmental time, shorter adult longevity, and lower fecundity than those reared under laboratory condition. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm), net reproductive rate (R0), and the finite rate of increase (λ) under laboratory condition were higher than those obtained under semi-field condition. However, the mean generation time T (days) aphids in the semi-field were higher than those reared under laboratory condition. In the present study, the results clearly showed that life table parameters of B. carduiwere different under semi-field and laboratory conditions. These results canhelp us to understand the population dynamics of B. Cardui under semi-field condition and make better management decisions for economically important crops.