In this study, we show that CPP is an ‘essential’ or ‘complete’
prey for A. bipunctata in that it supports both successful development
and reproduction. Thus, this ladybird could be considered a
potential candidate for augmentative biological control of CPP in
pistachio plantations of Iran. However, more research is needed
to assess the control potential of A. bipunctata mass-reared and
released against the CPP under field conditions. Meanwhile, an
IPM program for CPP should include tactics aimed at conserving
A. bipunctata and other natural enemies of this pest.
Acknowledgments
We thank Prof. H. Fürsch, Zoology Museum München, Germany,
and Dr. A. Rezvani, Plant Pests and Diseases Research Institute,
Tehran, Iran for identification of ladybird and aphid respectively,
and R. Mirzaei for assistance. We are grateful for the comments
of referees, and the editor. The Pistachio Research Institute of Iran
supported this study.