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Limitation of superparasitism by Aphidius rhopalosiphi: a consequence of aphid defensive behaviour
Author(s) -
GARDNER SARAH M.,
WARD S. A.,
DIXON A. F. G.
Publication year - 1984
Publication title -
ecological entomology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.865
H-Index - 81
eISSN - 1365-2311
pISSN - 0307-6946
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2311.1984.tb00709.x
Subject(s) - aphid , biology , limiting , parasite hosting , parasitism , zoology , botany , host (biology) , ecology , computer science , mechanical engineering , world wide web , engineering
. 1. The behavioural mechanisms limiting superparasitism by Aphidius rhopalosiphi (DeStefani‐Perez) are described. 2. A.rhopalosiphi did not discriminate between parasitized and unparasitized aphids, or avoid attacking and ovipositing in previously parasitized aphids. 3. Aphid defensive behaviour was increased for a short period after a parasite stabbing attack. In response to this behaviour the number of parasite stabbing attacks subsequently undertaken declined. 4. Once a stabbing attack had been initiated, parasite oviposition success was unaffected by aphid defensive behaviour. 5. It is concluded that applied defensive behaviour, by limiting the number of stabbing attacks undertaken by A.rhopalusiphi , effectively limits the number of parasite eggs laid and the extent to which super parasitism occurs.