Post embrionary development and reproductive potential of Chrysoperla externa (Hagen) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) fed with different amounts of eggs of Sitotroga cerealella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)

Abstract

The effect of food availability on biological Chrysoperla externa aspects was evaluated in laboratory (25 ± 2^oC, 70 ± 10% UR and 12-hour photophase). The larvae groups received different amounts of Sitotroga cerealella eggs. The evaluations included: duration for each instar and for the entire larvae stage, viability in each instar and in the pupal stage, mean body mass of third instar larvae, pre-oviposition and oviposition periods, and total oviposition capacity. The larvae stage duration did not present differences due to food availability, ranging from 10.7 to 11.5 days. Also, the viability in the different instars, the pre-oviposition and oviposition periods, and egg-laying capacity were not affected. However, a variation tendency was observed in larvae body mass depending on prey availability. Thus, the food offered in different amounts did not differ as to the predator’s best or poorest development