Comparative Morphology of Eggs of the Predators Brontocoris tabidus and Supputius cincticeps (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)

Abstract

Abstract Brontocoris tabidus (Signoret)and Supputius cincticeps (Stal) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) are natural enemies of lepidopteran defoliator pests. Therefore, more detailed information regarding the morphology of their eggs will certainly enhance the identification of these predators during the initial developmental stages for easy recognition of their presence in the field. In this study, eggshell morphology and morphometry of B. tabidus and S.cincticeps were examined. The diameter of the B. tabidus eggs was 2.03 ± 0.12 mm, height of 2.86 ± 0.08 mm, and the number of aero-micropylar processes were 14.8 ± 0.74; for eggs of the S.cincticeps, the diameter was 1.80 ± 0.32 mm, height 2.05 ± 0.27, and aero-micropylar processes 12.6 ± 1.18 mm. The eggs are oval to subglobose in shape, narrowing from the base to the apex; the operculum is circular convex with a circular array of aero-micropylar process on the anterior pole of the egg. The spicules seen on the flattened side of the B. tabidus and S.cincticeps eggs are fewer than those found in the operculum. Egg height and the number of aero-micropylar processes were higher in B. tabidus than in S.cincticeps. Such distinctive characters enable the identification of these predator's eggs.