Development and reproductive potential of predatory pirate bug, Blaptostethus pallescens (Poppius) at different temperatures

Blaptostethus pallescens (Poppius) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) is a subtropical species and is reported to be a potential predator of sucking pests. Development of this predator was investigated at six different temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40°C) in the laboratory. Temperature range of 20-30°C was found optimum. Rearing the bug at temperatures lower or higher than this range resulted in the mortality of both adults and pre-imaginal stages. The development of the bug showed a linear relationship with temperature within this range. Maximum fecundity (59 eggs) was recorded at 25 ± 5°C and it was best temperature for mass multiplication of this predatory bug.