The Effects of Cold Acclimation on Cold Tolerance and Growth and Reproduction of Plodia interpunctella
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Plodia interpunctella is a globally significant pest of stored grains, posing a major threat to food safety. To explore its cold-adaptation mechanisms, this study evaluated the physiological and developmental responses of different life stages following short-term cold acclimation at 4 °C. Results showed that cold acclimation significantly reduced the supercooling points (SCPs) of larvae and pupae, with the greatest reduction observed in the second instar larvae. Antioxidant enzyme assays revealed marked increases in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD), indicating enhanced oxidative stress resistance. Developmental durations were significantly shortened at lower temperatures in acclimated individuals, and fecundity was notably increased at 24 °C, although no significant changes were observed at higher temperatures. These findings suggest that cold acclimation improves the cold tolerance and reproductive performance of P. interpunctella under low-temperature conditions, offering insights into insect adaptability and providing theoretical support for the development of low-temperature-based pest management strategies in stored grain systems.
Source: Insects
Authors: Zhuoke Shi, Huiyuan Zhang, Shaohua Lu, Mingshun Chen
Institutions: Henan University of Technology, Kansas State University
Language: English
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4413958438