Biological Characteristics of Ambivia parapopa

Under controlled indoor rearing conditions, the life history, developmental characteristics, and biological traits of Ambivia parapopa were investigated using a combination of routine monitoring and event-triggered intensive observations. Developmental duration, morphological changes, and key life history events across instars were recorded, and morphological parameters including head capsule width and pronotum length were measured.The species was univoltine under room temperature conditions in Kunming and overwintered as late-instar nymphs. Females and males underwent eight and seven instars, respectively. The fifth instar exhibited the longest duration (79.96 d), whereas the first instar was the shortest (17.15 d). Female longevity (235.34 d) was significantly greater than that of males (54.38 d). Morphologically, first-instar nymphs displayed ant-mimicking coloration, while later instars (2～8) exhibited twig-mimicking morphology and coloration. Marked sexual dimorphism was observed, with females significantly larger than males in both body size and pronotum length, and possessing more distinct forewing patterns. Exuvial morphology clearly reflected ontogenetic progression.The annual life cycle showed a peak emergence in mid to late April, with oviposition occurring from late April to early September. These findings provide a foundation for further ecological studies and potential applications of A. parapopa in biological control.