Exploring marking methods for the predatory hoverfly Sphaerophoria rueppellii (Diptera: Syrphidae)

Insect Science, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: unknown

Published: March 16, 2025

Abstract Hoverflies are essential to ecosystems, with adults serving as important pollinators and larvae preying on plant‐feeding insects or recycling nutrients. Species like Sphaerophoria rueppellii used in biocontrol programs target aphid pests. To enhance these programs, markers can be a mark‐release‐recapture (MRR) method track hoverfly feeding oviposition sites. Effective must persistent not harm the hoverflies’ vital functions. This study evaluated three marking methods for S. : rubidium (RbCl), fluorescein, fluorescent dust. Laboratory experiments assessed effects of female fecundity, mating behavior persistence. Results showed no significant differences egg‐laying survival time between marked unmarked females. Rubidium fluorescein did affect behavior, but dust‐treated females mated significantly less than untreated In terms persistence, dusts remained detectable throughout adult lifespan, while markings faded within 24 h. Fluorescent were easy‐to‐use, durable, cost‐effective, careful application further needed avoid potential insect activity ability. Fluorescein adverse biology, was economical quick apply, had short making it unsuitable long‐term field studies. harmless long periods, its detection required financial investment, time, specialized equipment. research provides valuable insights into hoverflies agents offers new tools their effective management agricultural settings.

Language: Английский

Dipteran parasitoids as biocontrol agents

BioControl, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: unknown

Published: March 17, 2025

Language: Английский