Predatory potential Of Chrysoperla zestrowi Sillemittenry and Cryptolaemus montrouzieri (Mulsant) on papaya mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus (Williams And Granara De Willink)

Abstract

Predatory potential of Chrysoperla zestrowi Sillemittenry and Cryptolaemus montrouzieri (Mulsant) was investigated in the laboratory. Both predators were found feeding on all the nymphal instars of Paracoccus marginatus (Williams and Granara de Willink). Third instar larvae of C. zestrowi were the most voracious feeder and consumed significantly higher number of ovisacs, first, second and third instar nymphs of mealybug as compared with first and second instar larvae of the predator. Similarly fourth instar grub of C. montrouzieri consumed higher number of ovisacs, first, second and third instar nymphs of mealybug. The results indicate the potential of C. zestrowi and C. montrouzieri in the the biological control of P. marginatus.