Selection of aphid prey by Adalia bipunctata L. and Coccinella 7‐punctata L

SUMMARY Larvae and adults of Adalia bipunctata L. and Coccinella 7‐punctata L. seemed unable to detect and avoid feeding on unsuitable or toxic aphids, e.g. larvae of A. bipunctata fed on the highly toxic Megoura viciae, even when given the choice of a suitable aphid. Apparent preferences were not always for the most suitable food. Field cage experiments demonstrated the preference of adult A. bipunctata and C. 7‐punctata for different habitats, the former ovipositing at the shrub level (4 ft.) and the latter feeding and ovipositing on plants near ground level.