The ‘Moult Rate’ (MR) method has been used widely to derive stage-specific growth rates in juvenile copepods. It is the most common field-based method. Unfortunately, the equation underlying the method is wrong and, consequently, large errors in juvenile growth rate estimates are widespread. The equation derives growth from the mean weight of 2 consecutive stages (i and i + 1) and the duration ...

The life cycle of Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi Neumann, 1897, is discussed under the following headings: larval feeding; larval drop; nymphal feeding; nymphal drop; nymphal moulting; adult feeding; adult drop; preoviposition period; oviposition period and incubation. Special attention has also been given to the development of both male and female reproductive organs, gametogensis and mating.

In insects the development of a rigid exoskeleton requires that for growth and metamorphosis to occur a new cuticle must be periodically formed and the old one cast off. This process (the moult) is initiated with the release of the prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH) from the brain. Then follows the secretion of a second hormone, ecdysone, by the prothoracic glands, the apolysis of the epidermis ...