Companion plants for predatory bugs

Abstract

Predatory bugs (essentially Miridae and Anthocoridae) are used since years as biocontrol agents in greenhouses. These bugs occur naturally in the Mediterranean area. They are found colonizing vegetable crops, if they are not disturbed by chemical treatments. They are omnivorous predators which can feed on various arthropod preys as well as plant sap and/or pollen. The broad range of prey of these generalist predators is very interesting in vegetable production, where the diversity of cultivated species points to a high diversity of pests. Their biological traits (indigenous, generalist predators, phytophagy that allows them to survive during periods of prey scarcity) make them good candidates for an effective pest control. However, their establishment is slow, whereas their presence is eliminated at the end of the crop cycle and new releases have to be applied. These shortcomings can be substantially improved by habitat management (Perdikis et al., 2011), especially through companion plant useful to attract and maintain natural enemies. Their insertion inside or outside greenhouses (e.g., flower strips) provides food and shelter for Miridae and Anthocoridae throughout the year. This is especially important in winter because winter crops are often very poor host plants for beneficials. Applying this method, the beneficials remain in the greenhouse moving between the crop and the companion plants and may offer pest control for a long period at a very low cost.

Biological Control Agents for Control of Pests in Greenhouses

“…At present, the positive effects of the ability to feed on plants is well acknowledged, and non-crop plants may be added to the crop to improve the presence and establishment of predators. Not only do these non-crop plants offer shelter or alternative food, but they also provide breeding sites for development of predator populations (Messelink et al 2014;Perdikis et al 2011;Lambion et al 2016). In practice however, few growers use such plants.…”