Heat Sensitivity of Developing Embryos of Tribolium confusum

Abstract

THE effect of temperature on the incubation period of poikilothermic animals is usually considered in terms of constant or uniformly fluctuating temperature. Under constant conditions the rate of development is slightly less at the maximum temperature which permits hatching than at slightly lower temperatures. In an attempt to elucidate the factors involved in this lengthening of the embryonic period, developing eggs of Tribolium confusum Duval were exposed to high temperatures for brief periods during their development. Although the data obtained show considerable variation, periods of increased susceptibility were evident.