A temperature-dependent phenology model for Bemisia tabaci MEAM1 (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Agricultural Science
• Pest Management

Background:

• The sweetpotato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) Middle East-Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1), is a globally significant agricultural pest due to its wide host range and role as a virus vector.
• Understanding temperature-dependent population dynamics is crucial for predicting pest spread and developing effective control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a process-based physiological model for Bemisia tabaci MEAM1 to predict its population growth and phenology across varying temperatures.
• To validate the model using field data and assess its utility for pest management.

Main Methods:

• Life-table experiments were conducted at seven constant temperatures (12–35 °C) to gather data on development, mortality, and reproduction.
• Nonlinear equations were fitted to the data, and a phenology rate-summation model was developed using Insect Life Cycle Modeling (ILCYM) software.
• The model was validated against observed life tables under natural temperature fluctuations.

Main Results:

• Simulations predicted population growth for B. tabaci MEAM1 within a temperature range of 13.9–33.4 °C.
• The maximum finite rate of population increase (λ = 1.163) and shortest generation time (33.3 days) were observed at 26.4 °C.
• The model demonstrated good agreement with observed data and published literature.

Conclusions:

• The developed physiological model accurately predicts B. tabaci MEAM1 performance across a range of temperatures.
• This model is a valuable tool for predicting the potential spatial distribution of this invasive pest and for tailoring pest control measures to specific temperature regimes.