Research on methods of cultivating cochineal(Dactylopius coccus Costa)
Author of the article:CHEN Hai-You** ZHANG Zhong-He***
Author's Workplace:The Research Institute of Resource Insects, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming 650224, China
Key Words: cochineal, cactus, cultivation, horizontal mode, alternate operation, sucrose
Abstract: [Objectives] To explore new methods of cultivating cochineal. [Methods] There are two modes of cultivating cochineal (Dactylopius coccus Costa) in greenhouses, one is the host stem slicing mode, and the other is the host planting mode. In this paper, cultivation technology used in slicing mode, including cultivation environment, horizontal stem cultivating method, inoculating methods and providing sucrose to feed the cochineal insect, were explored. Furthermore, aspects of the planting mode, including inoculating methods, alternate inoculation and host height control were also explored. [Results] New cultivation methods were developed for both modes. [Conclusion] With regard to the slicing mode, a better cultivation environment can be created using pine needles, soil and water; the horizontal stem cultivation method produces high yields; straw should be put in the inoculating bag when cactus stems are suspended to cultivate cochineal; a suitable concentration of sucrose was helpful to improve cochineal production. With regard to the planting mode, alternate inoculation should be adopted; the height of host plants should be < 100 cmand spreading cochineal insects on gauze to inoculate the plants can save significant labour costs.