none Growth, development, and survival of a neotropical ectoparasite, I. kimballi Kirkland, obtained from Mexico was examined. Fully grown larvae of the southwestern corn borer, D. grandiosella, serve as hosts. Parasite larvae grew at a high rate which was most synchronized at 30 degree C. Each of the 5 larval instars was completed in apprx 12 h at this temperature. The efficiency with which the parasite converted digested host tissue into body substance increased from 61-82% as the number of parasites per host increased from 1-8. Free-living adult parasites survived for long periods at 20 degree C and 25 degree C (50% mortality gt 100 days) when they were provided with honey and water. Adults of the parasite, therefore, appear to overwinter in Mexico, but would be unable to overwinter in Missouri (USA) because food is absent, and winter temperatures are too low to permit survival.