Reproductive ecology of predaceous Heteroptera

► Promoting reproduction of predatory Heteroptera improves the reliability of biological control. ► Reproductive ecology of predatory bugs is inherently coupled to maternal and egg physiology. ► Maturation, fecundity, and diapause are important to reproductive success but fluctuate widely within and among species. ► Physiological status of the mother, the abiotic environment, and natural enemies affect these processes. ► Myriad factors influence which oviposition sites are preferred, and species use different approaches to locate oviposition sites.