Seasonal abundance and spatial distribution of the predatorMacrolophus costalis and its preyMyzus persicae on tobacco

摘要: Field studies were conducted to assess the population and spatial dynamics of predatory bugMacrolophus costalis Fieber (Hemiptera: Miridae) its prey, aphidMyzus persicae (Sulzer) Aphidoidea), on tobacco. From an untreated tobacco field in Tithorea (central Greece), leaves collected from upper lower half plants June until September, 1999 2000. The numbers ofM. andM. individuals per leaf counted. Most aphids observed during July August (early mid season), with densities dropping markedly September. In contrast,M. increased late season (September). Significantly higher found than half. contrast, significantly moreM. Iwao’s Regression Analysis was used order characterize pattern two species. According this model, both sampling seasons, nymphs displayed aggregated pattern, whileM. adults be randomly distributed among units. Although recorded relatively high aphid densities, species did not react numerically changes prey density. addition, a significant number bugs low or no at all.