Lethal and sublethal effects of sulfoxaflor on Chrysoperla rufilabris (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)

The soybean aphid, Aphis glycines, is a major economic pest of soybean. Current management practices rely predominantly on scouting and foliar application of broad-spectrum insecticides.  Though broad-spectrum insecticides are effective in reducing soybean aphid populations, these insecticides negatively impact natural enemies, which have been shown to be important in preventing pest resurgence. Our previous work has shown that sulfoxflor, a newly available selective insecticide, is as effective as a broad-spectrum insecticide for soybean aphid suppression, but more compatible with predators.  However, sublethal effects on predators were not examined.  In order to improve integration of chemical and biological controls for more sustainable soybean production, we performed laboratory bioassays to examine the lethal and sublethal effects (i.e. impacts on development time, fecundity) of sulfoxaflor on Chrysoperla rufilabris, a potential predator of the soybean aphid. Effects of sulfoxaflor were evaluated through residual contact on the larval and adult stages of C. rufilabris. Results will be discussed in the context of improving integration of chemical and biological controls for soybean aphid.