The Host-Plant Origin Affects the Morphological Traits and the Reproductive Behavior of the Aphid Parasitoid Aphelinus mali

Diversifying agroecosystems through habitat management inside or outside production fields can provide alternative hosts and/or prey for natural enemies. In semi-natural habitats, parasitoids may find host-plant complexes (HPC) that could allow their development when pest are scarce in the field. However, morphological and physiological differences between targeted HPCs affect preference fitness of parasitoids, possibly altering efficacy regulating pests. present study, we examined two Aphelinus mali parasitoid populations developing on Eriosoma lanigerum from host plants (Malus domestica-apple trees Pyracantha coccinea). We hypothesized A. both will show different life history traits behaviors because primary host-plants known to induce variations biological performance. Our findings indicate originating E. P. coccinea parasitized more aphids smaller than those apple. Furthermore, these did not significantly vary ability attack oviposit apple lanigerum, suggesting function as a suitable banker plant mali. discuss potential use conservation control orchards.