Behavioral mechanism of transfer and dispersal of Propylaea japonica in cotton adjacent to sorghum fields

Increasing crop biodiversity, such as by adjacent managed crops, is recognized an effective biological control measure. However, few studies have focused on the mechanisms involved in how crops increase natural enemy populations, leading to reduced pest numbers. This study investigated hypothesis that cotton grown sorghum would positively influence feeding and oviposition preferences of ladybug Propylaea japonica , which predates aphids, enhanced control. The populations Aphis gossypii were significantly lower those P. higher compared with monoculture fields. Regardless diet larva reared ( Melanaphis sacchari, A. 50% M. sacchari + ), adults always consumed more gossypii. also showed for host plants bearing aphids only plants. fed preferred lay eggs cotton, whereas sorghum. These results suggest habitat enemies can be expanded influencing their achieve cropping systems. research, incorporates field laboratory studies, suggests approach successful conservation using crops.