Research and IPM

Phenology Model Database

Potato Tuberworm

Scientific name: Phthorimaea operculella

Phenology models predict timing of events in an organism's development. For many organisms which cannot internally regulate their own temperature, development is dependent on temperatures to which they are exposed in the environment.

Note: Before using a model that was not field tested in your location, you should test the model for one or more seasons under your conditions to verify that it will work for you.

Model 1 of 2

Cardona C., and E. R. Oatman. 1975. Biology and physical ecology of Apanteles subandinus Blanchard (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) with notes on temperature responses of Apanteles scutellaris (Muesebeck) and its host, the potato tuberworm. Hilgardia 43: 1-51.

Location of study: Riverside, California (laboratory studies)

Developmental threshold

Lower:

58.2°F

(14.6°C)

Method of calculation: not specified (UC IPM recommends Single Sine)

Degree-day accumulations required for each stage of development

Host: Potato	DD (°F)	DD (°C)
Generation time (egg to adult):	496.4	275.8
Pre-egglaying adults:	65.1	36.2
Generation time (egg to egg):	561.5	311.9

Model 2 of 2

Foot, M. A. 1979. Bionomics of the potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), at Pukekohe. New Zealand Journal of Zoology 6: 623-626.

Location of study: Pukekohe, New Zealand (laboratory studies)

Developmental threshold

Lower:

50.0°F

(10.0°C)

Method of calculation: not specified (UC IPM recommends Single Sine)

Degree-day accumulations required for each stage of development

Host: Potato	DD (°F)	DD (°C)
Eggs:	97.7	54.3
Larvae:	283.1	157.3
Prepupae:	58.0	32.2
Pupae:	141.5	78.6
Generation time (egg to adult):	580.3	322.4
Pre-egglaying adults:	54.9	30.5
Generation time (egg to egg):	635.3	353.0