Effects of soil tillage and flooding on the eggs of Zonocerus variegatus (L) (Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidaejin northern Nigeria

DOI:1O.36108/NJE/4891/50.0101

AMATOBI, C.I.

ABSTRACT: The effects of flooding and soil tillage on the eggs of Z. variegatus were investigated in a riverine farmland. A combination of soil tillage and flooding at 4,8 and 12 days intervals’ for two months before hatching began and continuing for another two months thereafter caused 83, 75 and 65% egg mortality respectively. Soil tillage and subsequent exposure to desiccation destroyed 51 % of the eggs. Flooding alone at 4, 8 and 12 days intervals caused 72, 76 and 43% egg mortality respectively. Flooding generally delayed egg development. Hatching of the eggs lasted for about 21/2 months and the peaks occurred in December or January.

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