The Effect of Temperature on the Growth and Development of Vanessa cardui

Overview

Global warming is raising the core temperature of the earth slowly. Temperature is known to have an effect on the metabolism of insects, thus speeding up their growth and development. Furthermore, temperature plays an important role in influencing the development of Vanessa cardui, yet its effects are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the influence of 3 temperature groups (22, 25,29 ℃) on larval growth, developmental timing, and morphological effects.Through testing, results show high temperatures significantly impact the growth and development of Vanessa cardui (Painted Lady Butterflies) through a statistically significant p-value.The results indicate that while thermal stress speeds up development, it negatively affects survival and morphological development. The morphological development of bent wings increased with temperatures, and Chi Square test revealed a statistically significant relationship between temperature and bent wing deformities (X²=14.31 df=2, p<0.0008). Faster development coupled with bent wing deformities can interrupt the natural migration patterns. This migration is crucial for the reproduction of the next generation, and without the Painted Ladies ability to complete the migration, the population of Painted Ladies could be reduced.The alternative hypothesis was accepted because the increased temperature was found to increase the growth and development of V. cardui.

Competition history

• CSEF 2026 Zoology (Senior Division) · Entry S-20-17

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