Biological characters of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) experimental population on cotton varieties in Xinjiang.

The development, survival, reproduction, and life-span of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) on six major cotton varieties (Xinluzao 8, Xinluzao 16, Xinluzao 17, Zhongmian 35, Kang 5, and Dai 80) in Xinjiang were studied u nder the conditions of (26±1) °C, relative humidity (75±1)%, and illumination L :D=16:8 in laboratory. The life table of the B. tabaci e xperimental population was established, and the population net reproductive rate (R₀), intrinsic rate of increase (r_m), mean generation time (T) , and finite growth rate (λ) were estimated. Significant differences were o bserved in the size, development duration, survival, and fecundity of the experi mental population on the six cotton varieties. The fecundity and survival rate o f B. tabaci were the highest on Xinluzao 16 and the lowest on Kang 5. Xinluz ao 16 was the most appropriate host for the growth and development of B. tabaci population, followed by Zhongmian 35, while Kang 5 was the m ost unsuitable host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]