How climate influences the biology and behaviour of Phyllophaga capillata (Coleoptera: Melolonthidae) in the Brazilian Cerrado.

Abstract: Phyllophaga capillata (Blanchard) is the most important soil pest in soybean crops in Central Brazil (Federal District and Goiás state). The objective of this work was to study the bio-ecology of P. capillata in the field in the Cerrado of Central Brazil, relating its biology and behaviour to the climatic characteristics of this biome. The study was conducted over three years in a soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] production area (≈6000 ha) in the Federal District. Field samplings were taken to observe the biological stages of P. capillata, preferred oviposition sites and the adult swarming period. Phyllophaga capillata presented an univoltine cycle that lasted about 10 months of egg to inactive adults, and 12 months until the appearance of active adults. Eggs were found in the field in October and November. The larval stage occurred between November and June. Pre-pupae were observed in June and the pupae between July and August. Inactive adults were observed in August and September, and the swarming period was between September and December. Females preferred to oviposit in sites with taller plants. This species synchronises its active phases (larvae and active adults) with soybean cultivation and the rainy season (October/March) in the Brazilian Cerrado. Alternatives for pest management based on their bio-ecological characteristics are presented