[Effect of air temperature and relative humidity on the preimaginal development of Ctenophthalmus teres fleas (Siphonaptera)].

The duration of the development and survival of preimaginal stages of fleas at a temperature of 5 to 30 degrees and relative humidity of 60 to 90% was studied. Minimal average duration of the development an the highest survival rate at all stages were registered at a temperature of 20 to 25 degrees and humidity of 85 to 90%. Under these conditions the whole cycle from egg to image lasts on an average 23 days. The threshold of the development for different stages falls within the limits of 3 to 6 degrees. The duration of the development of all stages was distinctly affected by temperature while the duration of larval development was affected as well by humidity. The survival of larvae was found to be affected by humidity while the survival of individuals in cocoons was considerably affected by temperature.