Abstract
The aim of this study is to have a better knowledge about predatory ladybugs of pest mites present on papaya leaves, with a view to using biological control methods to protect papaya orchards in Côte d'Ivoire. The samples were taken in three intensive papaya growing areas : Anyama Ahoue (Abidjan), Yobouekro (Toumodi) and Ngattakro (Yamoussoukro). In each area, three 1-year plots were chosen. Each plot was subdivided into 10 blocks (2 × 5 m). Three papaya leaves were cut off at random from an infested papaya stem, chosen from each block. The collected leaves are then observed under a binocular magnifier. All the predatory insects collected during this study belong to the family Coccinellidae. Six species have been identified ; these are Chilocorus sp,, Adalia sp., Cryptolaemus sp., Exochormus sp., Scymnus sp., Stethorus sp. However, Stethorus sp. is the only species observed consuming mites. Papaya orchards in Côte d’Ivoire contain a potential biological control agent for pest mites: Stethorus sp. Additional studies are necessary in order to develop thepotential of biological control agent of this ladybug against crop mites.