ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the evolution of techniques currently available for rearing Chrysoperla spp. and discusses the advances necessary for large-scale practical application of these important biological control agents. The effectiveness of Chrysoperla spp. as biological control agents has been demonstrated in field and orchard crops and in greenhouses. Rearing systems that rely on insects as the food supply are expensive. Thus, efforts to develop artificial diets for Chrysoperla and techniques for presenting that diet to the larvae began quite early. Chrysoperla eggs are deposited on slender stalks attached to the substrate. Egg collection thus presents some interesting opportunities for development of automated techniques. A mechanized mass rearing system is needed that utilizes artificial diet, rather than insect eggs, as a larval food source. Chrysoperla is a biological control agent that shows great promise for investment, because it can be used effectively in a wide variety of pest control situations.
