Dietary assessment across various life stages of seven-spotted lady beetle Coccinella septempunctata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

Abstract Background Coccinella septempunctata (L.) is an important predator in fighting against aphids on edible crops and vegetables. However, to establish a successful mass-rearing technique, it is crucial to determine the optimal diets for larvae, pupae, and adults in terms of fecundity, longevity, and ingredient ratios. The current study aims to learn more about the biology of ladybird beetle using both artificial and natural food components. Results This study tested six different ratios of natural and artificial diets, ranging from a natural aphid diet to a variety of artificial diets containing protein hydrolyzate, casein protein, honey, dry aphids, yeast, and agar. The results showed that the natural diet (D1) produced from aphids showed approximately 290.2 eggs, while artificial diets D2 and D4 produced 56.5 and 40.2 eggs, respectively. The effect of different diets on the longevity of different life stages was also tested. The minimum longevity of egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages were recorded for D1 and D4. Furthermore, the maximum percentage emergence of larval, pupal, and adult stages was observed for D1 and D2. D6 produced the longest adult duration, with a maximum of 84.60 days. However, there was no significant difference in sex ratio among the various diet components. Conclusions In conclusion, the results suggest that artificial diets are essential for sustaining C. septempunctata cultures in laboratories, especially during periods when natural prey is scarce. The most effective and efficient mass-rearing approach would be to provide both natural and artificial foods simultaneously. These findings may have significant implications for the development of biological control strategies for aphids in agriculture.