Phytoparasitica (2008) 36, 30-37

F.S. Ramalho, J. Mezzomo, W.P. Lemos, C.M. Bandeira, J.B. Malaquia, J.P.S. Silva, G.L.D. Leite and J.C. Zanuncio (2008)
Reproductive strategy of Podisus nigrispinus females under different feeding intervals
Phytoparasitica 36 (1), 30-37
Abstract: An attempt was made to quantify the influence of prey scarcity on longevity and on the reproductive variables of females of the predator Podisus nigrispinus (Dallas) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae). The predators received prey (Alabama argillacea) of different sizes, viz., 50 mg (small prey) or 220 mg (large prey), for a period of 24 h, daily or every 2, 4, 8 or 16 days. In an additional trial, the predators were provided only with water or kept without food, in which latter condition they lived a significantly shorter time. Individuals that received large prey in excess (every day) and at 16-day intervals lived significantly less, while the longevity of those that fed on small prey did not differ significantly between feeding intervals. Predators that fed less frequently laid fewer eggs, with increased intervals between clutches. The results were more marked in females fed on small prey; however, evidence of trade-off between reproduction and survival was detected only in predators that received large prey. The results suggest a type of trade-off, where longevity is maintained at the expense of reproduction. This strategy can contribute to the establishment and survival of P. nigrispinus in an environment of fluctuating food supply.
(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): Francisco de Sousa Ramalho, Germano L.D. Leite, José Cola Zanuncio

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.
	Alabama argillacea
Podisus nigrispinus (predator)	Alabama argillacea