The impact of temperature and pomegranate cultivars on biological characters of pomegranate aphid, Aphis punicae (Hem.: Aphididae)

One of the most important aphids on pomegranate trees is pomegranate aphid, Aphis punicae (Hem.: Aphididae). To determine the effect of temperature on biological characters of A. punicae, its fertility life table was studied by leaf cages on pomegranate leaves in four temperatures (19, 22, 25 and 27ºC). Also effect of pomegranate cultivars on seasonal fluctuations and life table parameters of A. punicae were investigated by weekly sampling from infested trees of ten cultivars in natural conditions and by using leaf cages on leaves of three cultivars (Shishepag, Robab, Shahreza) in greenhouse, respectively. Results showed that the estimated intrinsic rate of increase was significantly different between four temperatures and its highest value found in 27°C. Also, field results indicated that aphid density was significantly different between tested cultivars and the highest and lowest aphid densities were observed in Robab Shiraz and Rodbar cultivars, respectively. Based on estimated parameters of the fertility life table, the highest intrinsic rate of increase and finite rate of increase and also the lowest mean nymphal development time and mean generation time were occurred on Shishe-pag cultivar followed by Robab cultivar that indicated these cultivars are more suitable for development and population growth of pomegranate aphid.