Dietary composition affects levels of trace elements in the predator Podisus maculiventris (Say) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)

Insects require small amounts of dietary trace elements because they serve as antioxidants, enzyme co-factors and as constituents of metalloproteins. We measured the levels of 10 trace elements (Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Se and Zn) in the predatory insect, Podisus maculiventris, reared on natural prey and artificial diet; two food sources that differed in levels of trace elements. The levels of the trace elements varied greatly in insects reared on the two food sources and differed from the concentrations in the food. We also found that most of the trace elements in the eggs were present in low concentrations and in near-equal amounts in eggs laid by females reared on either of the two food sources. The homeostatic level of most trace elements in the eggs may reflect a commitment by the female to minimize the effect of dietary variation on her offspring. We conclude that trace element levels in P. maculiventris are substantially affected by the food source and can vary significantly from levels in the food source. Knowing this will improve the ability of researchers to determine optimal dietary requirements in insects for trace elements. Additionally, achieving the optimum trace element content within beneficial insects may improve their performance when used in biological control efforts.

ICP-MS analysis of 26Mg in whole body samples of eggs, nymphs and adults of Podisus maculiventris reared on natural prey or an artificial diet (mean ± SE) compared to the amount of 26Mg in the prey and diet. Values indicated with the same letters are not significantly different using Tukey’s test for significance at α = 0.05.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Trace element levels are substantially affected by the food source.
► Trace element content greatly differed from the content in the prey and diet.
► Trace element content varied between prey-fed and diet-fed nymphs and adults.
► Trace element levels were similar in eggs from prey-fed and diet-fed females.
► Optimum trace element content should improve the performance of biocontrol agents.