The Development of Antilochus coquebertii Fabr. (Heteroptera: Pyrrhocoridae) on Different Artificial Diets

Antilochus coquebertii Fabr is an important predator of the red cotton stainer (Dysdercus koenigii) in agricultural crops. The present study explores the development of A. coquebertii reared on three different artificial diets to enhance the efficiency of development and commercial production of this predator. Three artificial diets were prepared from the essential ingredients necessary for the insect's development and reproduction and tested under controlled conditions. The results showed that of all diet ingredients; both chicken liver and Nestle® bonyad provided a rich source of vitamin E, and efficiently supported the insect's fecundity and survival. The solid chicken liver (SCL) diet No. 3 showed good adult survival while adult longevity was enhanced with diet No. 2 containing chicken liver paste (CLP). Collectively, both diets, No. 2 (CLP) and No. 3 (SCL) were significantly effective in promoting the predator's development. The development of artificial diet can play an important role in sustaining the whole life cycle of A. coquebertii and allow the commercial production of this predator in the absence of its natural prey for biological control of D. keonigii as well as for research and development.