The tritropic effects on suitability of Cheilomenes sexmaculata were observed when reared on A. craccivora on various host plants viz., Phaseolus sinensis, Lablab purpureus, Vigna mungo and Vigna radiata. The effect of food plants on C. sexmaculata biology was assessed by observation of several developmental parameters, adult longevity and life span etc. A significant variation was observed and found host plants dependent biology of C. sexmaculata. The positive linear correlation is observed between development period and host plants but not the longevity of male and female. The faster developmental period (14.00±0.00 days), longest longevity (42.66±0.33 days) and life-span (63.00±1.38 days) were recorded on P. sinensis followed by L. purpureus, V. mungo and V. radiata at 19.45±0.55◦C and 60.85±1.015% RH. Thus, P. sinensis and L. purpureus can considered as essential host plants for mass production of C. sexmaculata. Such kind of information is very useful in effective management of A. craccivora by its predator C. sexmaculata and this information can demonstrate a successful Biological Control Programme. 

Key Words: A. craccivora, Biology, Biological control, C. sexmaculata, Host plants