Enhancement of the reproductive potential of Mallada boninensis Okamoto (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), a predator of red spider mite infesting tea: An evaluation of artificial diets

Green lacewing Mallada boninensis is an important predator of various soft-bodied arthropods, including red spider mites in tea. Efforts were made to develop mass rearing technology for this predator in a cost effective manner. Three combinations of artificial diets (Protinex (AD1), egg yolk (AD2) and royal jelly (AD3) based) were evaluated in comparison with standard diet (Protinex + Honey). All the tested diets influenced the egg-laying capacity of M. boninensis. The egg yolk-based diet resulted in more egg production than the other two diets. Survival of all life stages of M. boninensis was also observed on each diet and no significant difference was noticed. Results revealed that the egg yolk-based diet is the best of the three diet combinations tested in view of high fecundity and survival rate of M. boninensis.