Effects of Larval Nutrition on the Life Cycle, Size, Coloration, and Longevity of Chrysopa lateralis Guer

Life cycles of predators of the genus Chrysopa have been determined by several workers. The earliest and most thorough studies were conducted by Smith (1921, 1922) who investigated not only the life cycles but many other facets of the biology of several species. Later studies include those of Smith (1931), Putnam (1932, 1937) and Frazer (1945). None of these workers, however, investigated the life cycle of C. lateralis Guer.2 Studies reported here were initiated when wide variation in larval food acceptance and trash packets of lateralis were observed. It was felt that adequate evaluation of the importance of lateralis, in the biological control of citrus insects and mites would have to be based on a knowledge of the life cycle and food range of the species.