Continuous rearing of an entomoresource, the leaf beetle, Gastrophysa atrocyanea Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on artificial diets

Abstract

The leaf beetle, Gastrophysa atrocyanea Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) has been regarded as a bioagent suitable for the extermination of certain weeds, especially Rumex obtusifolius. We examined conditions for artificial mass rearing of this insect. An artificial diet based on the host-plant leaf powder and supplemented with feeding stimulants, was developed for laboratory rearing of the leaf beetles. In particular, the hatchability of eggs laid by the fourth generation and female longevity were equivalent to those for fresh host leaves. Consequently, the fifth generation was achieved by rearing on artificial diet.