Low seasonal temperatures promote lifecycle synchronization
Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Bulletin of Mathematical Biology
Volume
63
Publication Date
2001
First Page
573
Last Page
595
Abstract
In this paper we discuss how seasonal temperature variation and life-stage specific developmental thresholds that cause quiescence can synchronize the seasonal development of exothermic organisms. Using a simple aging model it is shown that minimal seasonal temperature variation and periods of quiescence during extreme temperature conditions are sufficient to establish stable, univoltine ovipositional cycles. Quiescence induced by life-stage specific developmental thresholds, in fact, promotes synchronous oviposition and emergence. The mountain pine beetle, an important insect living in extreme temperature conditions and showing no evidence of diapause, invites direct application of this model. Simulations using mountain pine beetle parameters are used to determine temperature regimes for which stable ovipositional cycles exist.
Recommended Citation
J.L. Jenkins, J.A. Powell, J.A. Logan and B.J. Bentz. “Low seasonal temperatures promote life cycle synchronization,” Bulletin of Math Biology 63: 573–595, 2001.
