Biology and Reproductive Rate of the Leucaena Psyllid, Heteropsylla cubana Crawford

Abstract

The biology and reproductive rate of the leucaena psyllid, Heteropsylla cubana Crawford was studied using Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit as host. Total developmental time was 10-11 days; eggs hatched in 2-3 days and the five nymphal instars required 8-9 days. Mean adult longevity was 10.6 days for females and 6.4 days for males. The preoviposition period ranged from 1-3 days. Mean egg production during the oviposition period was 18.8 eggs per day. The results of the reproductive study indicated a potential for rapid population increase if left unchecked.