Biology of Rogas aligarhensis Quadri (Hym. Braconidae) A Larval Parasite of Earias Spp.

Abstract

Rogas aligarhensis Quadri which was reported for the first time by Quadri in 1933 as a larval endo-parasite of Platyedra gossypiella Saund. is also a very effective field larval parasite of Earisa spp. in Anand area of Gujarat State, parasitising upto 90% of the larvae in the field. The parasite lays about 110 eggs during its life. The average egg period is 20.77 hours. The larvae moult five times and pupate in the host larval cadaver. The average developmental period from egg laying to pupation is 5.77 days and the pupal period is 5.54 days. The adult emerges by making a hole at the caudal end of the host cadaver. The average longevity of the female was 16.88 days, while that of the male was 13.12 days. Parthenogenesis is common in this parasite and the progeny from such females is all males.