Determination of insect predator species found on almond and wild almond trees adjacent to pistachio orchards.

摘要

Almond (Prunus amygdalus Batsch) and wild almond (Amygdalus orientalis) trees are the most abundant species adjacent to pistachio orchards of Sanliurfa province. This study focused on habitats that are located in the vicinity of the pistachio orchards, to determine whether these alternative habitats are a source of pistachio psylla's (Agonoscena pistaciae Burck. and Laut.) insect predator species. The study was performed in eight locations and 16 different non-orchard habitats adjacent to pistachio orchards in Sanliurfa, during 2008-2009. Two almond orchards were sampled weekly between March and November 2008, and the other almond and wild almond trees were sampled once a month by using beat trays. As a result of this study Anthocoris minki Dohrn., Orius sp., Piocoris luridus Fieb., Dereaocoris pallens Reuther, Oenopia conglobata (L.), Hippodamia variegata (Goeze), Coccinella septempuctata L., Scymnus sp. and Chrysopa sp. were found as a natural enemies. Among these species A. minki and O. conglobate were found as the most abundant predators. Both species began appearing on almond trees at the beginning of March. When pistachio psylla were not found in early spring, the predators species are present in alternative habitats which may be potential sources of biological control in orchards.