Life table parameters and predation potential of the coccinellid Hyperaspis trifurcata, feeding on the invasive cactus scale Dactylopius opuntiae.

Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell) is a significant pest of cactus pear species worldwide. Over the past seven years, there has been growing interest in its distribution, impact, and the effectiveness of its primary predator, Hyperaspis trifurcata Schaeffer, as a biocontrol agent. This study investigates the feeding potential and population growth parameters of the ladybird H. trifurcata, fed on D. opuntiae at different constant temperatures (23–35 °C). The developmental times of H. trifurcata decreased significantly with increasing temperature. The highest pre-adult survival (80%) and the highest proportion of females (43%) were recorded at 25 °C, and the lowest were recorded at 35 °C. The probability of survival to adult stage was highest at 25 °C for both females (43%) and males (39%). The predator individuals at 25 and 30 °C were more reproductive and survivable than those at other temperatures. The total preoviposition period significantly reduced with increasing temperature from 23 to 35 °C, while the mean oviposition period varied from 28.2 days at 35 °C to 36.2 days at 25 °C. The mean total fecundity was highest at 25 °C (388.5 eggs/female). The intrinsic rate of increase was highest at 30 °C (0.117 d− 1), followed by 25 °C (0.108 d− 1), while the lowest value (0.072 d− 1) was observed at 23 °C. The feeding efficiency of H. trifurcata significantly increased with the progression of each developmental stage, with fourth instar larvae and adults being the most voracious feeders on various cochineal instars. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing rearing conditions and utilizing H. trifurcata effectively as a biological control agent against D. opuntiae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]