Influence of Different Larval Feeding Regimes and Diet Presentation Methods on Chrysoperla Rufilabris (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) Development

Results of a comparative analysis of the effects of seven different larval feeding regimes on the development of individually reared Chrysoperla rufilabris (Burmeister) larvae are presented. Also, four methods for presenting liquid artificial diet (capillary tubes, sponge, agarose based jelly, and artificial eggs) are discussed. Development time, pupal weight, fecundity, and reproductive rate were higher for C. rufilabris larvae reared on the eggs of either Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) or Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier) than for those reared on artificial diet. Diet presentation methods that show promise include agarose-based jelly and artificial eggs.