Why eat extrafloral nectar? Understanding food selection by Coleomegilla maculata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Persistent URL
Author(s)
Choate, Beth A.
Lundgren, Jonathan G.
Date Issued
December 20, 2012
Abstract
Methods of increasing predator abundance within a habitat include the incorporation of non-prey food items, yet the influence of this on predation intensity toward herbivores remains unknown. In order to gain an understanding of nectar feeding in the predaceous beetle, Coleomegilla maculata (DeGeer), laboratory studies were conducted evaluating prey consumption in the presence of extrafloral nectaries. The physiology of beetles with access to prey only and a mixed diet were compared. To elucidate results of beetle physiology, Y-tube olfactometer studies were conducted and preferences between food types evaluated. Coleomegilla maculata females consumed 9 % fewer aphids when nectar was available. Lipid and glycogen content, as well as oocyte volume were not increased upon consumption of a mixed diet. Evaluation of predator behavior when offered both food resources together and separately demonstrated that extrafloral nectaries are attractive.
Journal
BioControl
Department
Biology
Citation
Choate, B. and Lundgren, J.G. (2012). Why eat extrafloral nectar? Understanding food selection by Coleomegilla maculata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). BioControl, 25: 359-367
Publisher
International Organization for Biological Control (outside the USA).
Version of Article
Published article
DOI
10.1007/s10526-012-9501-z.
ISSN
1386-6141
e1573-8248
Rights
This article was accepted and published in BioControl (2013), Choate and Lundgren. All rights reserved. The published version of this document is located at https://doi.org/10.1007/s10526-012-9501-z.
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