Abstract:To clarify the difference of the development and reproduction of Helicoverpa assulta (Guenée) on four pepper varieties (Yuyouxianla No.2, Yuyilüguan, Yuyimoxiudajiao, and Yutianjiao No.12, in a decreasing order of capsaicin content), the feeding choice response, developmental duration and fecundity of H.assulta on these varieties were investigated using choice feeding bioassays and life table method in the laboratory. Results showed that the food intake percentages of the newly-hatched, 3rd instar and 5th instar larvae on Yutianjiao No.12 arrived 33.33%, 34.22% and 36.82%, respectively, which were significantly higher than those on Yuyouxianla No.2. The generation survival rate on Yutianjiao No.12 was 25.00%, being significantly higher than that on Yuyilüguan and Yuyouxianla No.2. Additionally, H.assulta feeding on Yutianjiao No.12 had the shortest population doubling time (7.3290 d), and the intrinsic rate of increase (rm) of the pest on Yutianjiao No.12 was two-fold of that on Yuyouxianla No.2. The 6th instar larvae could utilize the Yutianjiao No.12 more effectively, compared with that of other three varieties. Yutianjiao No.12 was more suitable for H.assulta growth and reproduction.