Recognition of Aphid Prey by the Lady Beetle, Coccinella Septempunctata Bruckii Mulsant (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

Abstract

The lady beetle, Coccinella septempunctata bruckii, is suggested to capture an aphid prey after it makes contact either by its maxilla or maxillary palps. Amputation of the maxillary palps decreased the number of prey consumed and the efficiency of capture supporting the above suggestion. The lady beetle continuously fed on a prey while its maxilla were in contact with the aphid body fluid. © 1985, JAPANESE SOCIETY OF APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY AND ZOOLOGY. All rights reserved.