Question

Which is a coccinellid predator of mites in grapes?

• A. Coccinella septempunctata
• B. Stethorus rani
• C. Scymnus coccivora
• D. Phytoseiulus persimilis

Hint:

Always associate the genus Stethorus with specialized mite predation (acarophagy).
While Phytoseiulus is a predator of mites, it is a phytoseiid mite and not a coccinellid insect.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Biological control relies on identifying specific, highly efficient natural predators to suppress pest populations in orchard ecosystems.
Coccinellid beetles (ladybird beetles) are well-known predators, but different genera specialize in different target prey species.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the predatory characteristics of the given options:
Coccinella septempunctata is the seven-spotted ladybird beetle.
It is a generalized predator that primarily feeds on soft-bodied insects like aphids and jassids, rather than mites.
Scymnus coccivora is a small coccinellid beetle that specializes in feeding on mealybugs and scale insects.
Phytoseiulus persimilis is an extremely effective predatory mite belonging to the family Phytoseiidae.
Although it is a highly famous predator of spider mites in grapes, it is a mite itself, not a coccinellid beetle.
Stethorus rani is a tiny, black coccinellid beetle popularly known as the "spider mite destroyer".
Members of the genus Stethorus are specialized predators that feed exclusively on phytophagous mites like tetranychid spider mites on grapes and other deciduous fruits.
Therefore, Stethorus rani is the correct coccinellid predator of mites.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The coccinellid predator of mites in grapes is Stethorus rani.