Naslov
Predation on epigeic, endogeic and anecic earthworms by carabids active in spring and autumn

Autori
Šerić Jelaska, Lucija ; Symondson, OC William

Izvornik
Periodicum biologorum (0031-5362) 118 (2016), 3; 281-289

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, članak, znanstveni

Ključne riječi
Beneficial soil fauna, earthworm ecotypes, molecular gut content analyses, multiplex PCR, predatory insects

Sažetak
Background and purpose: Generalist predatory carabid beetles can control the abundance of a range of prey species within ecosystems, including certain pests. In terms of bio-control, these unspecialised predators may be sustained in the field when pest populations are low by predating on other animals such as earthworms. The aim of this study was to reveal patterns in predation by a community of carabids in the field on different earthworm species with respect to anecic, endogeic and epigeic earthworm ecotypes. Materials and methods: We utilised DNA extracted from the gut content of 23 carabid species to reveal predation on earthworms directly in the field, comparing spring and autumn active species. The DNA was then screened using PCR with five earthworm species-specific primers. Results and discussion: Our results show that 20 species, which accounted for 53% of all tested individual beetles, were positive for earthworms, with similar proportions in the spring and autumn samples and between the sexes. Earthworms from all three ecotypes were confirmed within the predator guts and were widely consumed within the carabid community. Conclusions: These results suggest that predation on earthworms might be an important mechanism sustaining populations of generalist predatory carabids in the field, which can be advantageous for biological control. Therefore, management systems that maintain a healthy soil with all three ecotypes of earthworm present is likely to be beneficial for carabids and indirectly for control of plant pests.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Biologija

POVEZANOST RADA