Predatory efficiency ofCheilomenes sexmaculata(Fabricius) andChrysoperla zastrowi sillemi(Esben - Petersen) on cotton mealy bug,Phenacoccus solenopsisTinsley under laboratory conditions

Abstract

The feeding potential of different developmental stages of Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi (Esben-Petersen) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) against different nymphal instars and adult female mealy bugs, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Sternorrhyncha: Coccoidea: Pseudococcidae) indicated that both were found to be active predators on mealy bugs and their feeding efficiency increased with advancement in developmental stages. C. sexmaculata beetle consumed a total of 1371.10 first instar nymphs or 361.40 second instar nymphs or 225.40 third instar nymphs or 27.90 adult female mealy bugs during its life cycle. The total consumption of first, second, third instar nymphs and adult female mealy bugs was 700.46, 245, 30.53 and 8.56, respectively by one individual of C. zastrowi sillemi during its life span. C. sexmaculata showed more feeding potential as compared to C. zastrowi sillemi and these can be further utilized to reduce mealy bug populations unde...