Mixed effects of landscape complexity and insecticide use on ladybeetle abundance in wheat fields

Abstract

BACKGROUND Although the abundance of insect natural enemies in crop fields may be influenced by the surrounding landscape and local field management, particularly insecticide use at the local scale, few studies have examined these factors simultaneously. In this study, we investigated the effects of landscape context and insecticide use in local fields on ladybeetle abundance in wheat fields in northern China. RESULTS Woodlots and fallow land were the most important landscape variables enhancing ladybeetle abundance. We used the cumulative percentage of these land types to characterize landscape complexity. Comparing the change in ladybeetle abundance in wheat fields within different landscapes and with different in‐field insecticide regimes, we found that although more complex landscapes enhanced ladybeetle abundance, the negative effects of insecticide use on ladybeetle populations were not offset by landscape complexity. Additionally, the positive effects of more complex landscapes on ladybeetle abundance were not significant in wheat fields subjected to high insecticide use. CONCLUSION Ladybeetle abundance is enhanced by landscape complexity, but this is modified by insecticide use in local fields. Within‐field efforts to maximize the conservation biological control of pests to improve crop yield should take into account the influence of the surrounding landscape. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry

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