Effect of selected pesticides on larval mortality of the neuropteran predator, Chrysopa lacciperda Kimmins, of the lac insect, Kerria lacca (Kerr)

Laboratory bioassays were carried out to evaluate the bioefficacy of some pesticides against larval Chrysopa lacciperda Kimmins, a lac insect predator, to develop a suitable strategy for field management of this serious neuropteran pest of Indian lac insect, Kerria lacca (Kerr). Seven insecticides (lambdacyhalothrin, carbosulfan, spinosad, indoxacarb, fipronil, alphamethrin and ethofenprox) were identified based on field trials against the lac insect. They were evaluated for their bioefficacy against C. lacciperda by spraying the insect directly and by exposing the insect to a residual film. Direct spray of lambdacyhalothrin (0.005 and 0.008% a.i.), carbosulfan (0.02 and 0.03% a.i.), fipronil (0.005 and 0.01% a.i.), alphamethrin (0.005 and 0.01% a.i.), spinosad (0.02% a.i.), indoxacarb (0.02% a.i.), and ethofenprox (0.02% a.i.) exhibited 100% mortality of C. lacciperda within 24 h of treatment. Fipronil (0.005 and 0.01% a.i.) and indoxacarb (0.02% a.i.) were equally effective as 100% mortality was observed within 24 h of treatment with both modes of treatment. For most insecticides, direct spray was more effective compared to residual films. It is therefore, suggested that lambdacyhalothrin, carbosulfan, indoxacarb, spinosad, fipronil, alphamethrin and ethofenprox shall be incorporated in IPM programs for the effective management of this neuropteran predator of lac insect without adversely affecting the lac insect.