Bean Foliage Consumption by Mexican Bean Beetle (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and Its Effect on Yield

Bean foliage consumption by Epilachna varivestis Mulsant larvae was de termined under greenhouse conditions at 22 to 26?C to be 14.3 cm2 per larva of which 87% was consumed during the final 2 instars. Adult consumption was 4.5 cm2 per 24 hours. Dry weight consumption for larvae and adults was also determined. Percentage yield loss due to 2nd, 3rd, and 4th instars and adults feeding to the end of the season at a density of 50 insects per 5 plants was determined to be 2.0%, 2.1%, 8.3%, and 54.9% of the total loss respectively. The duration and survival of larval instars and pupae in the field are given.