Emergence of the aphid Hysteroneura setariae (Thomas, 1878) and ladybird predators Coccinella septempunctata L., 1758 (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on the grass Muhlenbergia capillaris (Lamark) Trinius in central Japan

Pink muhly grass Muhlenbergia capillaris (Lamark) Trinius is a perennial, tussock-forming that native to North and Central America. The reddish-purple coloration of the spikes this species has resulted in becoming popular as an ornamental plant around world. Interestingly, very few insects have been reported be associated with grass. I therefore examined arthropod assemblages on M. two urban parks central Japan autumn found aphid Hysteroneura setariae (Thomas, 1878) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) its natural ladybird predator Coccinella septempunctata L., 1758 (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) occurred at high densities one (ca. 9000 vs 3.4 individuals/m2). Other insect pests, such moth Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner, 1808) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) mirid bugs were also present, but markedly lower densities. Since H. not pest C. beneficial predator, could used banker agricultural fields well green spaces.