Studies to identify an alternative aphid host for culturing the predatory syrphid, Ischiodon scutellaris (Fabricius) (Diptera: Syrphidae)

Abstract Background Aphidophagous syrphid, Ischiodon scutellaris (Fabricius) (Diptera: Syrphidae) is an effective predator of aphids that infest many agricultural and horticultural crops. Cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora Koch (Hemiptera: Aphididae), the natural host for culturing syrphid predator, I. . The present study was conducted to evaluate feeding development on seven species aphid hosts viz., A. , fabae Scopoli, gossypii Glover (from cotton), Schoutedenia emblica (Patel & Kulkarni), Brevicoryne brassicae (L.), okra) Hyperomyzus carduellinus (Theobald) identify alternative maintain culture during situation non-availability/loss Results not accepted by larvae did survive S. descending order potential > H. B.brassicae cotton) larva suctellaris completed its in combination prey ( + ). net reproductive rates R 0 ) when fed were 308.28 302.33, respectively. intrinsic rate increase r significantly higher reared (0.155 ± 0.003) than (0.143 0.004). Conclusion results confirmed Lactuca virosa could serve as alternate mass production