Rearing of Diabrotica balteata LeConte is possible throughout the year at temperatures between 10° and 30 °C. Adults feed on a very large variety of host plants. Good edibility combined with pronounced oviposition and egg viability are found in Cucurbitaceae, Leguminosae, Rosaceae, and Cruciferae. However, cases of good edibility with no oviposition are also established in several families. Optimal adult longevity lies between 17° and 24 °C and oviposition indicates two high peaks within the female life span.Temperatures below 0 °C are detrimental to all stages and those between 0° and 4 °C mainly to larval and pupal stages. No diapause is found in any stage and this explains the limited distribution within warmer regions of the Americas. Precautions not to introduce this species into other continents should be taken.
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