The effect of rearing temperature on flight initiation of Trichogramma sibericum Sorkina at ambient temperatures

Trichogramma sibericum Sorkina was reared in the laboratory at three temperatures: 16, 21, and 26 degrees C. Individuals from each of these treatments were then tested for propensity to initiate flight at one of four ambient temperatures: 16, 19, 21, or 26 degrees C. Both rearing and ambient temperatures had significant effects on flight initiation. Insects reared at 16 degrees C had the highest mean proportion of flyers; insects reared at 26 degrees C had the lowest. The proportion of insects initiating flight increased with increasing ambient temperature. Also, the interaction of these two temperature experiences was significant. Insects reared at 16 degrees C were more likely to initiate flight at 16 degrees C than insects reared at 21 or 26 degrees C. These results indicate that performance (as assessed by flight initiation) at ambient temperature is dependent on the temperature previously experienced during rearing, (C) 1999 Academic Press.