Determination of some biological properties of Aphis gossypii(Glover) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) feeded with melon (Cucumis melo L.) varieties

In this study, some biological parameters of Aphis gossypii Glover (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on five different melon (Cucumis melo L.) cultivars (Balin, Çıtırex, 221 F1, Gediz, Yusufbey), which are commonly grown in Turkey, was investigated in laboratory experiments at 25± 1 ˚C, 65±% RH, and a photoperiod of 16:8 (L:D) h (5.000 lux). Life table parameters were estimated according to age-stage, two-sex life table method. In conclusion; some biological parameters of A. gossypii were determined in depending on melon cultivars, and intrinsic rate of increase (r=0.504 day-1 ) and the finite rate of increase (λ= 1.655 day-1 ) of this pest were higher than other varieties and shorter mean generation time (T=8.161day). Gediz was the most sensitive melon species in terms of life cycle of A. gossypii. Results acquired might be used in pest management program that will be prepared for this aphid. Keywords: Aphis gossypii, Cucumis melo, Life table, Melon aphid, Population parameters,