Developing a Standard Method for Rearing of Chrysoperla comanche For Biological Control

Bosse, Dani

Undergraduate Honors Thesis

Developing a Standard Method for Rearing of Chrysoperla comanche For Biological Control Public Deposited

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Citeable URL: https://scholar.colorado.edu/concern/undergraduate_honors_theses/00000173q

Abstract

Biological controls, which involve introducing natural enemies for pest management, offer a promising alternative to chemical pesticides, which are known for their detrimental human and environmental impacts. While biological controls provide a sustainable and cost effective option, their efficacy depends on thorough research and effective implementation. My research aimed to develop a method to rear the Comanche Green Lacewing, Chrysoperla comanche, a commonly used genus in biological control, and a commonly found species in Colorado. In order to develop a rearing method, I tested 5 different food sources for the larval diet: Mediterranean Flour Moth (Ephestia kuehniella) eggs, a mix of Ephestia eggs and pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum), hornworm (Manduca sexta) paste, mealworms (Tenebrio molitor), and other lacewing larvae (Chrysoperla carnea). The results of my study showed that a diet consisting of a mix of Ephestia eggs and pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum) resulted in the highest percentage of lacewings surviving through their larval stage and emerging as adults. By finding the most efficient rearing protocol, I generated knowledge and understanding that could help to support an economically feasible quantity of lacewings to agricultural settings. This will enhance the accessibility of lacewings as an Integrated Pest Management tool, promoting sustainable agriculture, reducing pesticide use, and mitigating associated health and environmental risks, locally in Boulder and in agricultural settings across North America.

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