Temperature-dependent development and parasitism of Bracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) under laboratory condition

The Present study was carried out to evaluate the influence of twelve constant temperatures (10-37°C) on the development and parasitism of  Bracon hebetor (Say). It was observed that development periods of different stages of Bracon hebetor decreased with the increase of temperature with range from 10 to 37°C.  Males have shown shorter developmental periods as compared to females.  Fecundity is higher (158.36) at 25°C and decreased with increase of temperature  with range from 136.16 to 42.92. Linear regression model was used to determine lower developmental thresholds.  Egg, larval and pupal's lower developmental thresholds were recorded 9.55°C,  15.75°C and 11.63°C, respectively and 50, 31.25 and 125 DD are required for egg, larval and pupae, respectively. Higher parasitism (99.83%) was recorded at 25°C. Low parasitism was recorded at higher temperatures as compared to lower temperatures.