The predator Orius insidiosus (Say) feeds on thrips, aphids, whiteflies, mites and small caterpillars and contributes to regulate the population of these pests in different agroecossystems. The present research aimed to evaluate the selectivity of the pesticides abamectin, cartap, cyromazine, fenpropathrin and imidacloprid, which are registered for chrysanthemum crops, to eggs and first-, second- and third-instar nymphs of O. insidiosus. A Potter tower was used to spray the insecticides on the eggs and nymphs at the highest recommended rates. After spraying, the individuals were kept under controlled conditions at 25 ± 1ºC, 70 ± 10% RH and 12h photophase. The effects of the pesticides on the embryonic period, on egg viability, instar duration and nymph survival were evaluated. The eggs of O. insidiosus were tolerant to all pesticides. Both cartap and cyromazine were selective, whereas abamectin, fenpropathrin and imidacloprid were toxic to all tested instars of O. insidiosus. Fenpropathrin was the most toxic pesticide and killed 100% of the nymphs. The insecticides cartap and cyromazine can be recommended for integrated pest management programs in chrysanthemum crops.
Toxicity; biological control; chrysanthemum
