Predator-prey relationships on Apiaceae at an organic farm

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Ecology
• Biological Control

Background:

• Florida flower thrips (Frankliniella bispinosa) are significant agricultural pests.
• Orius insidiosus and Orius pumilio are important natural enemies of thrips.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the predator-prey dynamics between Orius species and Frankliniella bispinosa on two host plants.
• To evaluate the potential of Queen Anne's lace (Daucus carota) and false Queen Anne's lace (Ammi majus) as banker plants for Orius species.

Main Methods:

• Field observations were conducted in north central Florida.
• Predator and prey populations were monitored on Daucus carota and Ammi majus flowers.
• Thrips and Orius species abundance, population profiles, and host plant associations were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Orius insidiosus and Orius pumilio were confirmed as major predators of Frankliniella bispinosa on both plants.
• Frankliniella bispinosa colonized Daucus carota more extensively and earlier than Ammi majus.
• Orius species showed no host plant preference, and their populations increased in response to thrips abundance, suggesting a density-dependent relationship.

Conclusions:

• Daucus carota and Ammi majus can potentially serve as banker plants for Orius species, supporting biological control of thrips.
• Limited observation of immatures suggests that oviposition and development occur elsewhere.
• Orius insidiosus populations were larger and predominantly male compared to Orius pumilio.