Protease inhibitors of fodder plants as a factor of immune response influencing the physiological state of the potato ladybird beetle Henosepilachna vigintioctomaculata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

Abstract

The paper analyzes how protease inhibitors of fodder plants with different genotypes influenced the physiological state of the potato ladybird beetles that fed on them. Feeding on plants with resistant genotypes leads to malnutrition in phytophagous insects because the nutrient absorption is impaired by the inhibitors of digestive enzymes. This results in a slowdown in the developmental timing and fat accumulation and the induction of various developmental disorders during the ontogeny to the extent of the cessation of vital functions.