Inflorescence-inhabiting spiders do not threaten the survival and fecundity of Anthonomus santacruzi (Curculionidae), a florivorous biocontrol agent of Solanum mauritianum (Solanaceae) in South Africa.

摘要

The florivorous weevil Anthonomus santacruzi is being released in South Africa to reduce the reproductive capacity of the invasive tree, Solanum mauritianum. Initiated to allay concerns about biotic interference, our study suggests that inflorescence-inhabiting spiders pose no risk to the survival and proliferation of A. santacruzi populations in the field.