Effect of temperature on cannibalism rate between green lacewings larvae (Chrysoperla carnea [Stephens], Neuroptera, Chrysopidae).

摘要

Larval cannibalism of green lacewings (Chrysoperla carnea) was observed during a laboratory bioassay on the non-target effect of entomopathogenic nematodes against green lacewings larvae. The most probable reason for larval cannibalism were the undersized Petri dishes in which the bioassay was performed. Due to large number of larvae per surface unit, frequent crossing of green lacewings larvae appeared and this consequently lead to cannibalism. In most cases, larger, elder larvae consumed smaller, younger larvae. Cannibalism increased with increasing temperature and was the most intensive at 25 degrees C. At this temperature, the larval mortality was 22.0% after two days and 31.0% after four days.