Response surface methodology reveals proportionality effects of plant species in conservation plantings on occurrence of generalist predatory arthropods

Patt, Joseph M.; Moreno, Aleena M Tarshis; Niedz, Randall P.

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0231471

Cited by 4 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 84 publications

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“…The relative importance of these traits is further mediated by the identity and development stage of resident natural enemies. Occasionally, one single plant species can dictate natural enemy community composition and the resulting biological control outcomes [ 65 ]. In the Gobi Desert oases, predatory ladybeetles and spiders are omnivores that may benefit greatly from access to non-crop plants.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Perennial Flowering Plants Sustain Natural Enemy Populations in Gobi Desert Oases of Southern Xinjiang, China

Liu

et al. 2022

Insects

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Natural habitats play crucial roles in biodiversity conservation and shape the delivery of ecosystem services in farming landscapes. By providing diverse resources to foraging natural enemies, they can equally enhance biological pest control. In this study, we described the plant community and foliage-dwelling invertebrate predators within non-crop habitats of the Gobi Desert oases in southern Xinjiang, China. We assessed whether plant-related variables (i.e., species identity, flowering status) and herbivore abundance affect natural enemy identity and abundance. A total of 18 plant species belonging to 18 genera and 10 families were commonly encountered, with Apocynum pictum (Apocynaceae), Phragmites communis (Poaceae), Karelinia caspia (Asteraceae), and Tamarix ramosissima (Tamaricaceae) as the dominant species. Certain plant species (P. communis) primarily provide shelter, while others offer (floral, non-floral) food resources or alternative prey. Predatory ladybeetles and spiders were routinely associated with these plants and foraged extensively within adjacent field crops. Plant traits and herbivore abundance explained up to 44% (3%–44%) variation in natural enemy community and exhibited consistent, year-round effects. Among all plant species, A. pictum consistently had a significantly higher abundance of resident natural enemies, except for August 2019. Our study underlines how perennial flowering plants, such as A. pictum, are essential to sustain natural enemy communities and related ecosystem services in arid settings. This work not only informs sustainable pest management initiatives but also shows how non-crop habitats at the periphery of agricultural fields underpin ecological resilience under adverse climatic conditions.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%