Abstract

Sunil Joshi., Ballal, C. R. and N. S. Rao (2001). An alternative host for rearing the exotic leucaena psyllid predator, Curinus coerleus (Mulsant) (Coleoptera : Coccinellidae). ENTOMON 26 (Spl. Issue): 86-92 (2001).

The exotic ladybird beetle, Curinus coeruleus ( Mulsant) was reared in the laboratory for seven successive generations using two different hosts, viz., natural psyllid host, Heteropsylla cubana Crawford and on alternative host, Ferrisia virgata (CK11.). F. Virgata was found to be suitable for C. coeruleus in supporting larval growth and development. Fecundity and adult longevity increased with advancing generations on F. virgata. Pupae reared on H. cubana were heavier than F. virgata reared pupae. However, fecundity, adult longevity and sex ratio did not differ in advancing generations in the two rearing regimes. High larval survivorship could be obtained on either host and it ranged from 82 to 96 percent on H.cubana and 86 to 96 percent on F. Virgata. The F. virgata reared predators were of acceptable quality and exhibited high feeding potential, larval survivorship and fecundity after transferring back to natural host even after seven successive generations of rearing on alternative host. One cage containing one fully infested pumpkin could yield 50 to 60 beetles. It was possible to rear about 1000 to 1500 adults per month with half a hour of labour per day. The method developed for rearing can be employed anywhere, irrespective of availability of subabul fields. Natural host based procedure fails during summer, as there is a decline in psyllid population, whereas alternative host based procedure is feasible even during summer. It is economical and minimises handling of insect stages, thus saving time and labour.