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Behavioural patterns and functional responses of a generalist predator revealed using automated video tracking
Author(s) -
Feng Yi,
Li YuDan,
Liu ZhiGuo,
Yu XingLin,
Zhu GuanXiong,
Keller Mike,
Liu TongXian
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
pest management science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.296
H-Index - 125
eISSN - 1526-4998
pISSN - 1526-498X
DOI - 10.1002/ps.5314
Subject(s) - foraging , predation , generalist and specialist species , predator , harmonia axyridis , functional response , biology , kairomone , ecology , intraspecific competition , coccinellidae , habitat
BACKGROUND Tracking predator–prey interactions using automated image recording systems provides insights into novel patterns and mechanisms of predator–prey dynamics, thus these systems have the potential to evaluate biological control agents effectively. Using an automated video tracking system, we aimed to quantify the behavioural patterns of a generalist predator Harmonia axyridis in response to changing prey density. The effect of intraspecific interactions on foraging efficiency was evaluated. In addition, functional response parameters were compared between the observations and model predictions. RESULTS The associated behavioural component of prey consumption by H. axyridis was modified by prey density, especially for dual predator trials. Both individual and paired H. axyridis exhibited type II functional responses and a consistent cycle of behaviour. Interestingly, intra‐specific interference did not affect overall prey consumption. Divergence between estimated and calculated functional response parameters was observed, which might due to the difficulty of separating foraging and non‐foraging activity. CONCLUSIONS Interference interactions between H. axyridis conspecifics might alter their foraging patterns; however, the outcome of prey consumption was not affected by this behaviour. In conclusion, automated video tracking systems may be used to expose the detailed foraging behaviour of predators and could be used to evaluate a wide range of natural enemies. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry