WATER ABSORPTION BY THE EGG OF Hylamorpha elegans (Burm.) (COLEOPTERA: SCARABAEIDAE), EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE

Abstract

During embryogenesis Hylamorpha elegans (Burm.) eggs absorb water from the soil, during embryogenesis increasing ca 2.5 in weight. Water absorption was related to the embryonic development, and therefore closely associated with temperature, it significantly was slower at 12ºC than at 20ºC. Eggs developed normally between 15 and 25ºC, but died at 30ºC. At 10ºC there was no development. Water absorption represents ca 30% of the total embryogenesis period. The distribution in southern Chile is mainly related to soil temperature conditions during the embryonic period, because soil humidity is appropriated in the area.