HABITAT AND FOOD SPECIFICITY IN APHIDOPHAGOUS PREDATORS

Current knowledge of the processes underlying prey location and choice by aphidophagous predators is reviewed by considering the succession of behavioural mechanisms required for the predator to obtain prey. Th e predator may locate areas where prey are likely to be found by respo nding to physical aspects of the habitat, or to semiochemicals produce d by the host plant. The predator may then respond to visual or olfact ory cues to locate the aphid prey. The predator's readiness to attack and consume aphids is influenced by any behavioural or chemical defenc e strategies, and by the palatability or nutrient value of the aphids. Toxic allelochemicals ingested by aphids from their host plant may ha ve a detrimental effect on predators.