Interspecific hybridization between introduced and indigenous green lacewings (Neurop., Chrysopidae: Chrysoperla) at different adult densities

Abstract

Abstract We investigated laboratory hybridization in different‐capacity cages between the indigenous Chrysoperla nipponensis and its close relative, Chrysoperla carnea , which has been recently introduced from Germany to Japan. Fertility varied depending on the combination of cross and cage capacity, and was decreased by reduced adult density in all crosses. Conspecific crosses showed significantly higher fertility than interspecific crosses. Interspecific crosses, especially C. nipponensis females × C. carnea males, showed low fertility at all adult densities. There will be few losses of identity of the indigenous C. nipponensis via interspecific hybridization with the introduced C. carnea , even if C. carnea were to become established in the wild.