Pollen preference of the Chrysoperla species (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) occurring in the crop environment in western France

Abstract

Two species of the Chrysoperla carnea complex: Ch. carnea sensu Henry and Ch. lucasina, occur in the crop environment in western France. Within the framework of a conservation biological control program for protected seed crops, the pollen consumption of these common green lacewings was investigated. The diverticulum contents of collected specimens were analysed to determine their food preference. Ch. carnea sensu Henry and Ch. lucasina are opportunistic feeders, which are attracted to large patches of flowering plants. The establishment of monitoring an attractive environment for these predators is discussed.

Keywords

• neuroptera
• chrysopidae
• common green lacewing
• conservation biological control
• chrysoperla
• oesophageal diverticulum contents
• pollen
• preference
• attractive plants
• western france
• crop environment