Biology and Life Table Studies of Dirhinus anthracia Walker (Hymenoptera:Chalcididae) a Parasitoid of Exorista bombycis Louis (Diptera:Tachinidae) at Various Constant Temperatures
Biology of Dirhinus anthracia Walker was investigated on its natural host, Exorista bombycis Louis at six constant temperatures (10-35°C). The lower threshold for development for male and female was 10.5° and 11°C, respectively. Entire development from egg to adult required 475.05 and 550.96 day degrees, respectively for male and female. Sex ratio was in favour of female at all temperatures except 35°C where a reversal of sex ratio was observed. Reduction in doubling time and generation time was observed as temperature increased.