ISSN:
1572-8889
Keywords:
predator–prey interaction
;
Liris niger (Sphecidae, Insecta)
;
crickets (Gryllidae, Insecta)
;
prey specificity
;
prey recognition
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Females of the digger wasp species Liris niger paralyzed and layed eggs on six of seven tested cricket species. L. niger females with unmanipulated antennae always rejected the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus, but those without antennal flagella paralyzed and layed eggs on it. Even L. niger females from maggots raised artificially on G. bimaculatus never paralyzed it. L. niger first orients toward a prey visually and then touches the prospective prey briefly with its antennal flagella. This contact determines about the suitability of the prey. The ability to differentiate between prey species required at least one partially unmanipulated antennal flagellum. The responsible sensilla were located on the upper surface of the antennal flagella. Chemical cues which make the cricket Acheta domesticus attractive to L. niger females could be transferred to G. bimaculatus.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1022346825811
Permalink
