Biological Performance and Predatory Capacity of Chrysoperla carnea Fed on Corcyra cephalonica and Sitotroga cerealella Eggs

Abstract

Chrysoperla carnea, a globally important generalist predator, is a key biological control agent in Integrated Pest Management (IPM). To optimize its mass-rearing for effective field release, we investigated the suitability of two alternative host eggs: the rice moth, Corcyra cephalonica, and the Angoumois grain moth, Sitotroga cerealella. The study evaluated C. carnea's biological performance and predatory capacity under controlled laboratory conditions (26±2∘C; 65±5% R.H). Developmental parameters (incubation, larval, pre-pupal, pupal, and total development time), larval consumption rates, and adult longevity parameters (pre-oviposition, oviposition, post-oviposition periods, and fecundity) were assessed. C. carnea exhibited a significantly shorter total developmental duration when reared on S. cerealella eggs compared to C. cephalonica eggs. Additionally, the consumption rates of larval instars were significantly higher when fed on S. cerealella eggs. These findings highlight that the nutritional quality of the host significantly impacts the predator's biological traits and predatory efficiency. Evaluating host suitability is crucial for optimizing mass production protocols, suggesting that S. cerealella eggs are a more favorable alternative host for the efficient mass-rearing and enhanced effectiveness of C. carnea in IPM programs.