Morpho-colorimetric characterization of the embryonic development of Chrysoperla externa (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae): Approach for its use for biological control strategy

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a pest control approach that considers all available strategies and their subsequent integration for pest control. The Biological Control (BC) of pests through the use of natural enemies is an outstanding strategy. Biological control by generalist predators has had a highlighted relevance in the last decade. This strategy by augmentation demands mass rearing of these organisms. In the Neotropical Region Chrysoperla externa (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) is of great importance for its high voracity and its wide range of hosts. The aim of this study was to describe the external changes of the eggs, especially in colour and shape, associated with the intrachorionic development of C. externa embryos, to characterize them morpho-colorimetrically. A practical key from its embryonic development determination was constructed as a tool for mass rearing technique, providing valuable information that could facilitate BC implementation for IPM programs in developing regions.