The potential of different fruit species as food for Harmonia axyridis (Pallas, 1773) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

Abstract

Harmonia axyridis was detected for the first time in Brazil in 2002. Since then, it has been recorded from the South to the Midwest of the country. Until now, almost all the registered cases were associated with the presence of aphids, its preferred source of food. Due to the occurrence of this species in areas of fruit growing in the South and Southeast of Brazil, the aim of this study was to analyze the preference and use of three different cultivars of fruit. The tests were set at 25ºC ± 1ºC, RH 70% ± 10%, and in a photophase of 12 h and with apples (Gala and Fuji), grapes (Niágara and Rubi), and pears (Williams and Asian). In the undamaged fruit experiment, the insects did not cause any noticeable damage. In the damaged and undamaged fruit experiment, a higher and statistically significant percentage of H. axyridis adults were found in the three damaged fruits. In the different cultivar experiment the Niágara grape, the Gala apple, and the Williams pear were significantly preferred by H. axyridis adults. These results may help in the management of this insect, preventing damage, which have been observed in other places where H. axyridis was introduced.

Invasion history ofHarmonia axyridis(Pallas, 1773) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in Ecuador

“…Harmonia axyridis has attained the status of agricultural pest in North America because it feeds opportunistically on fruit when prey is scarce and acts as a wine contaminant ( Koch et al, 2004 ; Koch & Galvan, 2008 ). Grapes, apples, peaches, plums, pears, raspberries, among other fruits, have been reported to be consumed by H. axyridis , blemishing the fruits and reducing their value ( Majerus, Strawson & Roy, 2006 ; Koch & Galvan, 2008 ; Guedes & Almeida, 2013 ). All these fruits are produced in Ecuador, usually for local consumption but, in recent decades, have become important exportation products.…”

Peer Review #2 of "Invasion history of Harmonia axyridis (Pallas, 1773) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in Ecuador (v0.1)"

“…Harmonia axyridis has attained the status of agricultural pest in North America because addition, since it feeds opportunistically on damaged fruit when prey is scarce and acts as a wine contaminant (Koch et al 2004. Grapes, apples, peaches, plums, pears, raspberries, among other fruits, have been reported to be consumed by H. axyridis, blemishing the fruits and reducing their value (Majerus, Strawson, Roy 2006, Guedes & Almeida 2013. All these fruits are produced in Ecuador, usually for local consumption but, in recent decades, have become important exportation products.…”

Environmental Impacts of Arthropods as Biological Control Agents

“…Oecol. Aust., 21(3): 268-279, 2017 2014), even being able to utilize alternative food resources, such as cultivated fruits in the absence of a preferred food, representing a risk to fruit crops in the country (Guedes & Almeida 2013). According to the literature, little is known about the potential impacts of the natural enemies of H. axyridis on its populations.…”