Tri-trophic interactions among Fopius arisanus, Tephritid species and host plants suggest apparent competition.

ABSTRACT: When several polyphagous herbivore species share a parasitoid, the tri-trophic interaction networks can be difficult to predict. In addition to direct effects, the parasitoid may influence the herbivore community by mediating indirect interactions among hosts. The plant species can also modulate the parasitoid preference for a specific host. One of the indirect effects is apparent competition, a negative interaction between individuals as a result of the action of shared natural enemies. Here, we focus on the interactions between the parasitoid Fopius arisanus (Braconidae) and two generalist fruit fly pests: Bactrocera dorsalis and Bactrocera zonata (Tephritidae). This parasitoid was introduced into La Réunion in 2003 to control populations of B. zonata and can

SUBMITTER: Moquet L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9834009 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature