Detection of shield beetle remains in predators using a monoclonal antibody

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0418.2004.00820.x
• Publication Date: 2004-05-17T14:55:42Z
• Authors: D. Schenk; S. Bacher
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; 01 natural sciences; 3. Good health

Abstract: Cassida rubiginosa Muell. (Col., Chrysomelidae) is considered to be a native biocontrol agent of the creeping thistle, Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop, one world's worst weeds. However, predation major mortality factor in C. populations and prevents high beetle densities nature. We determined temperature‐dependent detection periods shield remains within predators by immunological gut analysis, order define time period which must have occurred. conducted feeding trials with model Nabis mirmicoides Costa Chrysopa carnea Stephen at two three different temperatures, respectively, using larvae as prey. Indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used examine for presence prey antigen. The monoclonal antibody (MAb) CRL5‐1 clearly identified N. up 47 h 96 post‐feeding 15°C. An exponential decay gave good description antigen course predators. Calculated were 234.7 15°C 85.0 20°C 215.3 (15°C), 91.9 (20°C) 79.1 (25°C) . reported are longest known immunology, much higher than recently published DNA Therefore MAb highly valuable tool quantifying field.