Data on the biology of the crucifer flea beetle, Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze, 1777) (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Alticinae).

Biology of Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze, 1777) known as serious pest of cruciferous crops in Europe and North America was investigated both in the laboratory and under field conditions in Southwestern Hungary. Adults overwinter under plant debris and appear in large number by the end of April-beginning of May. Eggs are laid from May through spring until mid-July. Larvae can be found from June to mid-October. The pupation lasts until October. The young adults of the new generation appear in August and retire to the overwintering sites by the end of October. There was one generation observed under Hungarian conditions. Considering results annual cycle of Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze, 1777) is presented. The average number of eggs deposited by females in laboratory was 200.25 +/- 67.2. Investigations concerning the effect of the temperature on individual's developing time were accomplished under three controlled temperatures. Length of the development under different temperature conditions, the biological zero point and DD value of different developmental stages of Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze, 1777) are presented.