Type and spatial distribution of food supplements impact population development and dispersal of the omnivore predator Macrolophus pygmaeus (Rambur) (Hemiptera: Miridae)

Abstract

Macrolophus pygmaeus is one of the most widely used natural enemies in augmentative biological control programs in Europe, where it effectively controls various pests in protected crops. One of the main drawbacks in the use of M. pygmaeus is its slow establishment and early population development in the crop. In the present study, we evaluated the impact of two food sources; Ephestia kuehniella eggs and pollen of the cattail Typha latifolia, either alone or in combination, on the population development of M. pygmaeus in a tomato crop. In addition to comparing type of food source, we examined the effect of different patterns of food provision on the dispersal of M. pygmaeus within the crop. The type of food provided was shown to significantly affect the population development of M. pygmaeus. The mean number of nymphs and adults of M. pygmaeus per leaf was higher in those plants that received the E. kuehniella eggs alone or in combination with the cattail pollen, as compared to plants receiving only the cattail pollen as a food source or no food supplements at all. The pattern in which the food supplement was applied in the crop affected the dispersal of M. pygmaeus as well. The implication of these results for the use of M. pygmaeus in augmentative biological control programs is discussed.