Australian Journal of Entomology (2010) 49, 363-368

Michael D. Day and Helen F. Nahrung (2010)
Preference and performance of Aconophora compressa Walker (Hemiptera: Membracidae) on different lantana phenotypes in Australia
Australian Journal of Entomology 49 (4), 363-368
Abstract: The plant phenotypic preference and performance of Aconophora compressa, a biocontrol agent for Lantana camara in Australia, were assessed. Overall, there were no significant trends of A. compressa favouring any one particular phenotype. However, there was a gradual decrease in performance through subsequent generations, with populations of A. compressa dying out on two phenotypes. Females did not show preference for any particular lantana phenotype, ovipositing similarly on all five phenotypes presented in choice trials and all 16 phenotypes in no-choice trials. Nymphs developed on all 16 phenotypes tested. Percent development and time to complete development were not significant in the first generation but were significant in the second generation. There was a general decrease in performance with generation. However, this was probably due to rising temperatures with season rather than an effect of phenotype. These results suggest that A. compressa should establish on all phenotypes within its geographic range.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Michael D. Day, Helen F. Nahrung

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
biocontrol - natural enemies
Research topic(s) for beneficials or antagonists:
general biology - morphology - evolution

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Lantana camara (weed)
Aconophora compressa (weed bioagent)	Lantana camara (weed)