Estimation of stage-specific survival rates and other parameters for insect populations developing through several stages

A method of analysis is suggested for data obtained by sampling an insect population while the individuals in the population are developing through several stages. The method allows the estimation of (i) the numbers entering each stage, (ii) the mean duration of each stage, and (iii) daily survival rates. A basic assumption made is that the time of entry to a stage follows a normal distribution. The method is illustrated on data from a field population of grasshoppers and a laboratory population of locusts.