Abstract

Abstract Because of their importance and abundance as predators of pest insects in agroecosystems around the world, eight species of lacewings from four genera (Apertochrysa, Chrysopa, Chrysoperla, and Dichochrysa) were investigated to evaluate their performance when reared on eggs of Ephestia kuehniella Zeller, a factitious prey commonly used in mass rearing systems. In particular, a comparative assessment of trash-carrying versus naked species (ones not carrying trash on their backs) was performed. We measured the developmental times and survival rates of the eight green lacewings and compared these characteristics between trash-carrying and naked lacewing species. Survival during immature development was higher (77–87%) for the two naked species (Chrysopa pallens (Rambur) and Chrysoperla suzukii (Okamoto)) than for the trash-carrying species D. alcestes (33%). Immature and larval developmental times were significantly longer among the trash-carrying species than the naked species. The rapid development of naked green lacewings may be a strategy to decrease predation risk by aphid guarding ants and intra-guild predators.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.