Vol. 10, Issue 8 (2021)

Author(s):
Pranav NN, FS Khan and Dilip Zate

Abstract:
Predators are boon to farmers in controlling pests naturally and eco-friendly manner. The feeding potential studies revealed how effective predators are in pest management. The feeding potential of 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd grub instar of Mallada sp. on Uroleucon compositae were 20.78, 37.92 and 61.62 aphids and the total aphids consumed during total grub period was 120.32 aphids. The feeding potential value of Coccinella transversalis 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th instar grub against U. compositae were 13.25, 14.15, 18.40 and 37.33 aphids, respectively. The adult beetles of C. transversalis displayed a higher feeding potential of 407.09 aphids. The total feeding potential of C. transversalis during its entire life cycle was found to be 490.22 aphids.