Feeding Behavior of Cryptolaemus Montrouzieri Mealybugs Parasitized by Anagyrus Pseudococci

Abstract

The citrus mealybug Planococcus citri (Risso) and the vine mealybug Planococcus ficus (Signoret) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) are two worldwide polyphagous pests of citrus, vineyards and ornamental plants in greenhouses. Biological control of these pests may rely on the combined release of parasites and predators, which can be affected by intraguild predation (IGP). This Study investigated the feeding behavior of different stages of Cryptolaemus montrouzieri Mulsant (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on mealybugs parasitized by Anagyrus pseudococci (Girault) (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 days. The study was conducted in a climate-controlled room at 28 +/- 1 degrees C, 16L:81), and 65 +/- 10% r.h. The highest consumption values for all stages of C. montrouzieri occurred with 2- and 4-day parasitized mealybugs, whereas the predator did not feed on either species of mealybug parasitized for longer periods, due to the onset of mummification.