The Biology of Quettania coeruleipennis Schwarzer (Coleoptera) in Baluchistan

Extract

The biology of the Cerambycid, Quettania coeruleipennis, which is a serious pest of almond and pomegranate in Baluchistan is described. The larvae attack the top shoots and small branches, tunnelling downwards; the attacked branches ultimately become hollow and dry up.

The various stages are described in detail and their duration and seasonal history during the years 1943–1946 have been investigated. During these years, oviposition commenced between 7th and 18th May and ended between 22nd May and 3rd June; the incubation period of the eggs ranged from 12 to 19 days (average 15·9 days). Hatching of eggs started between 22nd May and 2nd June and ended between 10th and 20th June and the feeding period of the larvae ranged from 265 to 317 days (average 289·6 days). The prepupal period varied from 7 to 12 days (average 9·7 days). The first pupation during these four years took place between 2nd and 10th March and the last between 12th and 24th March and the pupal period varied from 25 to 36 days (average 30·2 days). Emergence of the adults began between 5th and 15th May and ended between 18th and 29th May.