Effect of natural hosts and alternate food sources on the biological parameters of acarophagous predator, Stethorus rani Kapur

Effect of different food sources viz., red spider mites, aphids, pollen, honey and extra floral nectary on the biological parameters of acarophagous predator, Stethorus rani (Coccinellidae:Coleoptera) was studied. Adult coccinellids fed uponred spider mites, aphids and pollen recorded highest longevity, mean fecundity, egg hatchability and adult emergence rate. The survival rate of larvae and pupae on the natural hosts and honey was statistically superior from the dietconsisting of extra floral nectaries and pollen. The study concluded that alternate food containing honey (20 ml in 100 ml distilled water) and pollen (5g) can be used to maintain immature and adult stages of S. rani under in vitro conditions under sub optimal or lesser availability of natural hosts.