Die effek van temperatuur en vog op die lewensloop en eierontwikkeling van Gryllus Bimaculatus (De Geer) (Gryllidae)

Abstract

A study of the life-cycle of G; bimaculatus, reared under laboratory conditions, on a fixed protein diet was undertaken. The functional relationship between temperature and development was determined and it was found that the relationship deduced for conditions of constant temperatures could successfully be applied to fluctuating temperatures. The development of the embryo was studied and illustrated, as well as the absorption of water in relation to temperature. It was found that the initial absorption of water is temperature dependent and that water absorption begins sooner at high than at lower temperatures. However, after water absorption has commenced uptake is independent of temperature. In spite of similarities between the cricket eggs and certain locust (e.g. Acanthacris) eggs, no drought-induced quiescence could be found in the former. Furthermore, it was found that free water is not necessary for development and eclosion of G. bimaculatus eggs.