ABSTRACT:
This study investigated the influence of cage sizes on the survival and reproductive potential ofChrysoperla externa (Hagen). Size of breeding cages significantly affected the reproductive potential ofC. externa . Our results indicated that in cages smaller (7.5cm of diameter) than those usually recommended for the rearing of this insect (10cm diameter), females showed higher rates of oviposition. Reduction of space for rearing natural enemies in the laboratory is very important for developing biological control programs.
Key words:
green lacewing; mass rearing; oviposition; predator