A model for mass-rearing of tropical crop-borers has been developed using Maruca testulalis as a case study. Maruca testulalis (Geyer) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) has been reared from egg to adult for three generations on artificial diet at laboratory room temperature ranging between 25−30°C with a 12-hr photoperiod. The total life cycle was completed in 23 days. Average life data from the three generations reared on diet are larval period (13.35 days), pupal period (6.67 days); pupal weight (52.69 mg) for female and (49.68 mg) for male; survival to adult 60.3%; fecundity (257.1) eggs per female.
