Research was undertaken at the Agricultural Research Institute in Mingora (N) Swat to assess the predatory capabilities of the Ladybird Beetle C. septempunctata against three distinct aphid species: Brevicoryne brassicae L, Macrosiphum rosae, and Lipaphis erysimi. The study revealed that C. septempunctata serves as an effective biological countermeasure against aphids. While C. septempunctata consumed all tested aphid species, it exhibited the highest predation rate on Rose aphids, followed by Walnut and Brassica aphids. Aphids were presented to C. septempunctata at varying intervals: 24h, 48h, 72h, 96h, 120h, 144h, and 168h. The most substantial aphid consumption was observed after a 24-hour interval, with a subsequent decline noted after 48 hours. However, consumption rates between 72 hours and 96 hours remained relatively consistent, showing no significant difference. A notable resurgence in aphid consumption was observed at the 120-hour mark. These consumption patterns may be influenced by temperature variations ranging from 23° to 27° Celsius. Further research is imperative to validate these findings and to enhance the utilization of C. septempunctata as a viable biological control agent in various integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.

Key words: Ladybird beetle, Aphids species, IPM and Swat