Complementarity between Orius predators improves control of foliar and flower pests.

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Biological Pest Control
• Horticultural Science

Background:

• Multispecies natural enemy assemblages can outperform low-diversity communities in pest suppression.
• Orius predatory bugs are key omnivorous agents in horticulture, primarily targeting flower thrips.
• Significant biological differences exist among Orius species, impacting their efficacy and distribution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the within-plant preferences of three Orius species: O. laevigatus, O. majusculus, and O. minutus.
• To compare the pest control efficacy of these Orius species against foliar and flower pests.
• To evaluate the synergistic effects of combining Orius species for enhanced pest management.

Main Methods:

• Oviposition experiments were conducted on Gerbera jamesonii plants.
• Greenhouse trials involved infesting gerbera plants with western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) and greenhouse whiteflies (Trialeurodes vaporariorum).
• The efficacy of individual Orius species and a combination of O. laevigatus and O. minutus were assessed.

Main Results:

• Orius laevigatus showed a preference for ovipositing in flower calyxes, while O. majusculus and O. minutus primarily laid eggs in leaves.
• O. laevigatus was most effective against flower thrips but least effective against whiteflies.
• A combination of O. laevigatus and O. minutus achieved the best control of both western flower thrips and greenhouse whiteflies simultaneously.

Conclusions:

• The use of Orius predators in pest control can be further optimized.
• Complementary species combinations within the Orius genus can broaden the spectrum of pests controlled by anthocorids.
• Targeted use of specific Orius species or their combinations can improve integrated pest management strategies in horticulture.