Abstract: 【Aim】 To explore the effects of photoperiod on the growth and development of the sugarcane aphid, Melanaphis sacchari, and to construct its life table under different photoperiods. 【Methods】 M.sacchari aphids were reared with leaves in petri dishes under different photoperiods (2L:22D, 6L:18D, 8L:16D, 12L:12D, 14L:10D, 18L:6D and 20L:4D), and their body weight and life table parameters were measured. 【Results】 The body weight difference of M. sacchari within 12 h from birth to maturity under the 12L:12D photoperiod and the body weight of its offspring (F₁ generation) were the highest (0.485 and 0.043 mg, respectively), while those under the 18L:6D photoperiod were the least (0.242 and 0.018 mg, respectively). The nymphal survival rates and adult fertility under photoperiods of 14L:10D, 12L:12D, 8L:16D and 6L:18D were significantly higher than those under photoperiods of 18L:6D and 2L:22D. The net reproductive rate (R₀) under different photoperiods ranged from 25.90 to 88.14 offsprings per female, with the maximum value under the 12L:12D photoperiod and the minimum value under the 2L:22D photoperiod. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm) under different photoperiods ranged from 0.325 to 0.407. The optimal photophase duration calculated with the fitting equation of life table parameters and photoperiod was 9-11 h. 【Conclusion】 Photoperiod has a significant influence on the population parameters of M. sacchari. The photoperiod of 9-11L:13-15D is optimal for its growth and reproduction, while other longer or shorter photophase periods will affect the population growth of this species.

Key words: Melanaphis sacchari, photoperiod, life table parameters, fecundity, developmental duration