Bionomics of Chilocorus infernalis Mulsant, 1853 (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), a predator of San Jose scale, Diaspidiotus perniciosus (Comstock, 1881) under laboratory conditions

Abstract

The bionomics of Chilocorus infernalis Mulsant, 1853, a natural enemy of San Jose scale, was studied under laboratory conditions (26 ± 2˚C, and 65 ± 5% relative humidity). The eggs were deposited in groups and on average 45.68 ± 24.70 eggs were laid by female. Mean observed incubation period was 6.33 ± 1.52 days. Four instar grubs were observed, and mean duration of all four grubs was found to be 19.98 days. The pupal stage lasted for 8.00 ± 0.50 days and after adults emerged out.

Keywords

• bionomics
• natural enemies
• San Jose scale
• incubation period
• larval instars