Abstract
Background: The discovery of natural products to improve the reproductive performance of mass-reared predators is an important aim for successful augmentative biological control. We tested the hypothesis that quercetin (a bioflavonoid) stimulates oviposition by the ladybird beetle Coleomegilla maculata in the presence of conspecifics and a tissue substrate. Methods: We conducted bioassays in solitary cages (housing one female) and communal cages (housing 10 females) to estimate daily oviposition site preferences, egg production in response to quercetin in the presence or absence of a tissue paper substrate, and female “resting” positions. Results: Females preferentially oviposited within 1–2 cm of quercetin powder, held in a tiny dish, at the base of cages. When given a choice, females oviposited in the dish with quercetin over a tissue paper substrate. In one of two experiments, they produced more egg clutches, regardless of oviposition site, when the quercetin and tissue were in close juxtaposition. Females “rested” on the tissue in the presence or absence of quercetin. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that quercetin can be utilized as an oviposition stimulant by C. maculata in a rearing system. Future research should determine if quercetin stimulates oviposition in other ladybird beetle species.
Highlights
A major impediment to mass-producing insect predators in quantities that are necessary for augmentative biological control is encouraging females to oviposit their full potential of eggs when reared on non-prey foods [1,2]
We further investigate the effects of quercetin on oviposition by C. maculata
In cost-effective mass rearing systems, which are designed to increase the production of progeny for augmentative biological control, oftentimes natural prey are not used [1,2]
Summary
A major impediment to mass-producing insect predators in quantities that are necessary for augmentative biological control is encouraging females to oviposit their full potential of eggs when reared on non-prey foods [1,2]. In the absence of any oviposition substrates, females might opt to lay their eggs on the underside of the lid or sidewalls of the rearing container, vial, or Petri dish [8,9]. Methods: We conducted bioassays in solitary cages (housing one female) and communal cages (housing 10 females) to estimate daily oviposition site preferences, egg production in response to quercetin in the presence or absence of a tissue paper substrate, and female “resting” positions. Females oviposited in the dish with quercetin over a tissue paper substrate. Future research should determine if quercetin stimulates oviposition in other ladybird beetle species
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