Research Description:

Determining Which Ova Depositors are Best for Geocoris Rearing

Geocoris punctipes, commonly known as big-eyed bugs, are found throughout the United States. A variety of this species is found in Florida. Big-eyed bugs are referred to as beneficial insects because they prey upon other insects that damage agricultural crops. Big-eyed bugs are researched because of their predatory status and can be used for the control of harmful insects without the use of insecticides.

A Geocoris population can be maintained in large amounts in controlled environments. Information about using mediums such as cotton balls, cotton gauze and cotton squares as ova depositors is currently unavailable. This information is needed so that mass production of big-eyed bugs could be better facilitated. In order to optimize their production, I am conducting a research project to identify which reproductive medium will promote the development of big-eyed bug eggs.

This project will analyze the difference between cotton balls, cotton gauze and cotton squares. Ova depositors will be placed into separate rearing containers along with a consistent amount of big-eyed bugs into each container. Each rearing container will have food, water and wax paper. Certain stages of the Geocoris will be counted, and a log established to monitor the survival and mortality of the insects.