Pest Management Science (2019) 75, 1517-1526

Yi Feng, Yu-Dan Li, Zhi-Guo Liu, Xing-Lin Yu, Guan-Xiong Zhu, Mike Keller and Tong-Xian Liu (2019)
Behavioural patterns and functional responses of a generalist predator revealed using automated video tracking
Pest Management Science 75 (6), 1517-1526
Abstract:
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.
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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.
	Myzus persicae		China (NE)
Harmonia axyridis (predator)	Myzus persicae		China (NE)