First Report on Voracity and Feeding Preference of Predatory Beetle, Thalassa montezumae (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on Croton Scale, Phalacrococcus howertoni (Hemiptera: Coccidae)

The croton scale Phalacrococcus howertoni Hodges & Hodgson gen. nov., sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Coccidae), was first found in Florida, USA. This has become a pest because of its high reproductive rate and production sooty mold. Here, we evaluated predation potential the predatory beetle, Thalassa montezumae Mulsant (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), as biological control agent. To our knowledge, this is study by T. on P. howertoni. Results studies showed that 4th instar higher 2nd stage nymphs than 3rd howertoni; adults lowest. Mean consumption adult highest followed nymphs, There were no significant differences between male female prey visited when offered choice or Thus, levels acceptance did not vary significantly stages males females. Females chose faster used less energy to search for food. Egg fecundity among beetles fed with different scales. Should major pest, could be agent within biologically based integrated management program.