Predatory potential of Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi (Esben-Peterson) against Planococcus citri Risso and Paracoccus marginatus Williams and Granara De Willink Infesting Cocoa, Theobroma Cacao Linnaeus

Laboratory experiment was conducted to record predatory potential of different larval stages of Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi against first, second, third instar nymphs of Planococcus citri and ovisacs, second instar nymphs and adults of Paracoccus marginatus. The larvae of C. zastrowi sillemi fed 709.80±84.56, 220.40±40.76 and 162±38.57 first, second and third instar nymphs of P. citri to complete their life stages, respectively. The first instar larvae of C. zastrowi sillemi fed 158.00±5.24, 35.00±2.73 and 23.60±2.87 first, second and third instar nymphs of P. citri, respectively. Among various instars of the predator, second and third instars were voracious feeder than other stages. Larvae of C. zastrowi sillemi fed 7.20±1.11, 410±73.14 and 58.60±7.80 ovisacs, nymphs and adults of P. marginatus to complete their life stages. Consumption by the first instar larvae of C. zastrowi sillemi was 1.40±0.55, 68.20±3.11 and 11.80±1.79 ovisacs, nymphs and adults, respectively. Among various instars of C. z. sillemi, second and third instars were voracious feeders. There is a greater scope for utilization of this macro entomophage in the development of integrated pest management module against sucking pests of cocoa.