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A multi-approach study to delineate interactions between carabid beetles and soybean aphids
Annabelle Firlej1, Josée Doyon, James D Harwood
1Institut de Recherche en Biologie Végétale, Université de Montréal, 4101 rue Sherbrooke est, Montréal, Québec H1X 2B2, Canada. annabelle.Þrlej@gmail.com
Environmental Entomology
|January 24, 2013
Summary
Pterostichus melanarius beetles prey on soybean aphids (Aphis glycines) but do not significantly reduce pest populations at high densities. However, they are important early-season predators when aphid numbers are low.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Entomology
- Ecology
- Pest Management
Background:
- Soybean aphid (Aphis glycines) is a major invasive pest in North American soybeans.
- Carabid beetles, including Pterostichus melanarius, are important aphid predators.
- Understanding natural enemy interactions is crucial for effective biological control.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess field predation of Aphis glycines by Pterostichus melanarius.
- Quantify the impact of Pterostichus melanarius on Aphis glycines populations.
- Evaluate Pterostichus melanarius as a biological control agent for soybean aphids.
Main Methods:
- Molecular gut-content analysis to detect aphid DNA in Pterostichus melanarius.
- Laboratory feeding trials to confirm predation.
- Field cage experiments to assess population impact.
Main Results:
- Aphid DNA was detected in 16.8% to 33.7% of Pterostichus melanarius sampled throughout the growing season.
- Laboratory trials confirmed Pterostichus melanarius preys on Aphis glycines.
- Field cage experiments did not show a significant reduction in aphid populations.
Conclusions:
- Pterostichus melanarius interacts weakly with high-density Aphis glycines populations.
- High predation rates at low aphid densities suggest early-season importance.
- Further research is needed to optimize biological control strategies.
