Searching behavior and predatory capacity of Chrysoperla externa on Frankliniella occidentalis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the predatory capacity of different larval stages of Chrysoperla externa (Hagen) on larvae and adults of Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) thrips under laboratory conditions. The second C. externa instar consumed significantly more F. occidentalis L2 larvae compared to the first and third instars, while the third instar of C. externa consumed significantly more adult thrips compared to the first and second instars. The predatory search behavior of C. externa consisted of walking erratically, searching up and down, elevating the head, resting, moving the head from left to right, opening and closing the jaws, cleaning the jaws, and catching and devouring the prey. Knowing the predation capacity and understanding the search behavior of C. externa are fundamental for establishing a biological control program. Because of the devouring capacity observed in the present work, C. externa could be an alternative in the management of thrips in avocado, Persea americana Mill.