Influence of temperature and relative humidity on development of greater wax moth Galleria mellonella L. (Pyralidae: Lepidoptera)

Honey bees are affected by several natural enemies. The greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella L.) is the most devastating pest. The influence of temperature and humidities on biology of the greater wax moth was studied in laboratory. With an increase in the temperature and relative humidity regimes there was a corresponding decrease in the total duration of greater wax moth. However, the hatching increased with increase in temperature and relative humidity. The lowest relative humidity regime (32- 33%) at 35°C and 20°C had adverse effects and the moth failed to lay eggs. At all the temperature regimes a decrease in relative humidity showed a corresponding increase in the durations of egg, larva, prepupa and pupal stage. However, the adult longevity and fecundity decreased with a decrease in relative humidity. 20°C and 25°C and their relative humidity combination prolonged all the developmental periods and reduced the fecundity. 30°C was the most favorable for all the developmental stages.