Temperature-Dependent Development of Nitidula rufipes (Linnaeus, 1767) (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) and Its Significance...

Area of Science:

• Forensic Entomology
• Developmental Biology
• Insect Ecology

Background:

• Coleoptera, particularly Nitidulidae, are vital indicators for estimating late-stage postmortem intervals.
• Accurate estimation of postmortem intervals relies on understanding insect development under various environmental conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the developmental durations of Nitidula rufipes (Linnaeus, 1767) across seven constant temperatures.
• To establish models for larval aging and instar discrimination using morphological data.
• To develop thermal summation models for predicting insect development.

Main Methods:

• Larval development durations were recorded from oviposition to eclosion at temperatures ranging from 16°C to 34°C.
• Morphological parameters (body length, head capsule width, urogomphi distance) were measured for instar analysis.
• Linear thermal summation and Optim SSI models were applied to developmental data.

Main Results:

• Developmental durations ranged from 71.0 days at 16°C to 20.8 days at 34°C.
• Regression and cluster analyses provided insights into larval aging and instar discrimination.
• Established models yielded a lower developmental threshold of 9.65°C and a thermal constant of 471.40 degree days (linear model).
• Optim SSI models indicated a lower developmental threshold of 10.12°C, an optimum temperature of 24.15°C, and an upper lethal threshold of 36.00°C.

Conclusions:

• The study provides foundational developmental data for Nitidula rufipes immature stages, aiding in minimum postmortem interval estimations.
• Established thermal models can predict development rates, crucial for forensic applications.
• Further research is recommended on the impact of fluctuating temperatures on development for more robust PMI estimations.