Population growth parameters of Scymnus nubilus (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on single diets of Aphis fabae or Myzus persicae (Hemiptera: Aphididae)

The life cycle of the ladybird Scymnus nubilus fed single diets of Aphis fabae or Myzus persicae was studied under controlled laboratory conditions. Data on egg development time, immature development time, immature survival, sex ratio, female weight, male weight, pre-oviposition time, lifetime fecundity and fertility, and adult survival were obtained. The population growth parameters calculated for both preys indicate that the predator has potential for use as biological control agent against aphids. Aphis fabae and M. persicae are new additions to the essential prey list of S. nubilus.