Techniques for rearing longhorn beetles

Abstract

Techniques for rearing longhorn beetles were reviewed with focuses on collecting the insects, handling adults, eggs, larvae, and pupae, and a method for synchronizing development. Under rearing conditions, the larval diet can consist of natural food or an artificial diet. Two types of artificial diets are generally used: one consists mainly of dry host plant powder and the other mainly of defatted soy bean powder, starch, sucrose, and wheat germ, and host plant materials. Low-temperature treatment for terminating diapause and desirable day-length conditions for synchronizing pupation and eclosion were determined. To rear beetles successfully in the laboratory, the diet must be chosen after considering the purpose for which the insects are being reared, the labor involved, and the laboratory facilities. Then, a procedure for rearing insects from eggs to adults must be designed.