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Aggregation in the lime aphid (Eucallipterus tiliae L.) : 2. Social aggregation
1Department of Biological Science, Kingston-upon-Hull College of Education, HU6 7RT, Hull, England.
Oecologia
|March 18, 2017
Summary
Lime aphids aggregate due to social cues, not feeding site preference. Adult aphids use visual wing patterns for aggregation, with closer spacing self-imposed at higher densities.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Animal Behavior
- Insect Ecology
Background:
- Aphid aggregation is a common phenomenon.
- Previous assumptions linked aggregation to shared feeding site selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the primary drivers of aggregation in lime aphids (Trioza alacris).
- To differentiate between site-specific and social aggregation mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Observational studies on nymphal and adult lime aphids.
- Analysis of aphid responses to visual and tactile stimuli.
- Assessment of spacing behavior at varying population densities.
Main Results:
- Aggregation is driven by social factors, with aphids acting as attractants.
- Adult aggregation is primarily mediated by visual stimuli from conspecific wing patterns.
- Antennal contact plays a minor role in initial settling, suggesting visual or olfactory cues are more significant.
- Increased density leads to self-imposed closer spacing, not solely due to space limitation.
Conclusions:
- Lime aphid aggregation is a social behavior, not linked to feeding site fidelity.
- Visual cues, specifically wing patterns, are crucial for adult aggregation.
- Self-regulation of spacing occurs at high densities, highlighting complex social interactions.
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