Predators feed on the pest insect. In many predatory insects, only the immature stages feed on other insects. The adults often feed on nectar. Several predators are known to reduce population levels of CLM, although they may have to be used in large numbers and in conjunction with parasites. The lacewing, a common predator that feeds on a variety of insect pests, is sold as a com-mercial biological control agent.
Pathogens cause insect diseases.
They may be bacteria, fungi or viruses. Many com-mercial bioinsecticides are formulated from pathogens. There are no known naturally-occurring pathogens of the citrus leafminer. When the larvae are inside the mines, they are protected from pathogens. The pupae are also afforded some degree of protection by the curled leaf margins.