An innovative, low-cost, small-scale rearing method forgreen-lacewings

摘要

In this paper we describe an innovative, low-cost, small-scale green lacewing (Neuroptera Chrysopidae) rearing method developed in our laboratories over a decade. The main simplifi- cations of our method are represented by the replacement of a yeast-fructose liquid diet for adults with bee pollen loads and by the use of Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus, 1758 larvae (Coleoptera Tenebrionidae) as factitious prey for larvae. Moreover almost all the components of the rearing cages derive from common cheap materials which can be easily assembled by anybody. Our method proves to be adaptable from a small laboratory to a local farmer's insectary and its innovative aspects could be adopted in (and/or adapted to) mass rearing systems.