Field Estimates of Insect Colonization

Abstract

Most life tables for insect populations have been compiled from data recorded in laboratory or controlled field conditions. A method applicable to natural populations was developed which may be used to monitor variations over time in environmental conditions. The method is employed to study a population of the Central American cotton stainer bug Dysdercus bimaculatus (Pyrrhocoridae; Heteroptera). Changes in the environment are clearly reflected in variations in the estimated survival rates which enables the effect of weather and moisture conditions to be assessed.