A life cycle study of Coccinella algerica Kovar, 1977 (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae): Census of a new larval stage in this lady beetle from Béni-Douala area (Tizi-Ouzou)

Abstract

The objective of biological control is to reduce chemical treatments on crops. To reduce aphid attacks with the use lady beetles is a positive, respectful alternative since it can maintain an ecological balance. In order to achieve this objective, the Algerian seven-spotted lady beetle (Coccinella algerica) was bred under laboratory conditions, and biological parameters of this species were studied. The study, conducted from April to May, showed that temperature and relative humidity greatly affected the incubation time of C. algerica eggs. Egg fertility was very high and reached up to 100%. The present work highlighted that the developmental cycle of this lady beetle from the Beni-Douala area (Tizi-Ouzou) passes through five larval stages. The fifth instar larva was recorded for the first time. Indeed, all studies carried out to date have identified only four larval stages in this species and have never mentioned the existence of L5, meaning that this result is original.