Inter- and intraspecific interactions in two mealybug predators Spalgis epius and Cryptolaemus montrouzieri in the presence and absence of prey.

摘要: Spalgis epius and Cryptolaemus montrouzieri are the two potential predators of different species mealybugs. However, mode their interactions is not known to use these together in field. Hence, we investigated on possible i.e., cannibalism, intraguild predation (IGP) competition between presence absence prey Planococcus citri. In prey, no cannibalism were observed both S. C. larvae. A pair larvae consumed significantly more number mealybugs than one epius/C. larva or a The by was epius. Conspecific interspecific egg absent montrouzieri. Cannibalism that study indicated can be used as an additive along with voracious under abundant population. IGP asymmetric prey. Both maintain stable coexistence when abundantly available, however, complete may dominate guild. This provides insight into complex inter- intraspecific predatory phenomena field biological control