Observational analysis identifies predatory potential and seasonal incidence of rhynocoris fuscipes, suggesting ecological importance in pest control.
Rhynocoris fuscipes (Fabricius) is a generalist predatory assassin bug from the family Reduviidae, recognised for its potential in the biological control of insect pests. The current study investigates its biology, predatory potential and seasonal occurrence, emphasising its role in integrated pest management. Laboratory studies revealed that R. fuscipes undergoes five nymphal instars, with developmental durations increasing as they grow. Adult females show higher longevity (26.2 ± 4.18 days) and predatory efficiency than males. Feeding potential studies show that predation rates increased with the developmental stage, with adult females consuming up to 126.33 ± 4.97 Spodoptera litura larvae. Seasonal incidence studies indicated population peaks during warm and humid periods. The findings highlight the ecological significance of R. fuscipes in pest management and its applicability in sustainable agriculture. Further research on conservation strategies and mass rearing is necessary to enhance its effectiveness as a biological control agent.
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Bhagyasree et al. (2023) studied this question.
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