Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) attracts and benefits the green lacewing Ceraeochrysa cubana Hagen

Abstract

Aromatic plants can affect arthropod community composition and reduce herbivore populations by attracting beneficial insects such as generalist predators. To investigate the possible mechanisms underlying the attraction of aromatic plant species to natural enemies in the field, we assessed the attractiveness of Ocimum basilicum L. (basil), Mentha piperita L. (peppermint), Melissa officinalis L. (lemon balm) (Lamiaceae) and Cordia verbenacea DC (black sage) (Boraginaceae) to adults of the green lacewing Ceraeochrysa cubana Hagen (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), a generalist predator widely distributed across the Americas. Additionally, we tested whether access to leaves and flowers of these plant species would affect larval survival, development or oviposition by C. cubana. The green lacewing was attracted to basil but not to the other aromatic plants. Larvae and adults did not benefit from the presence of any plant leaves, but basil flowers enhanced C. cubana larval and adult survival. Basil can be recommended as a companion crop in conservation biological control programs, not only for its well-known negative effects on pests, but also for its attractiveness to generalist predatory insects such as C. cubana. Besides attracting adults, basil flowers benefit both larvae and adults, which is desirable for conservation biological control.