Predator functional responses and the biocontrol of aphids and mites

Biocontrol with predators is a key tool for controlling agricultural pests and preserving the productive efficiency of crops. Determining which predators to use for biocontrol often involves measuring their functional response-the relationship between foraging rate and prey abundance, yet comparisons of functional responses across predators are complicated by differences in experimental procedures. Here we use a compilation of functional responses standardized for time and space units to illustrate key sources of variation in functional responses for predators being tested for control of aphids and mites. Our results show that arena size (as a proxy for habitat structure) is a crucial predictor of predator performance, indicating that assessments of functional responses on the crops of interest may be necessary for accurate comparisons. Our results also suggest that larger predators may generally be more efficient, and that warming linked to climate change could make biocontrol using predators more effective when pests are abundant.

Automated summary

Biocontrol with predators is a crucial tool for controlling agricultural pests and maintaining crop productivity. This study investigates the functional responses of predators being tested for aphid and mite control, utilizing standardized data and accounting for variations in experimental procedures. The findings highlight the importance of habitat structure in determining predator performance and suggest that larger predators may have greater efficiency. Furthermore, the warming associated with climate change may enhance the effectiveness of biocontrol with predators when pests are abundant.