Predatory behavior of the lynx spider Oxyopes javanus thorell (Araneae: Oxyopidae) on the cacao mirid bug, helopeltis bakeri poppies (Hemiptera: Miridae) in Luzon Island, Philippines

Issue Date

10-2017

Abstract

The lynx spider, Oxyopes javanus Thorell, occurs abundantly in rice and cacao agroecosystems of Luzon Island, Philippines and was found to be associated as a predator of the cacao mirid bug, Helopeltis bakeri Poppius. H. bakeri is an important pest of fruit trees with a wide host range and can cause damage to young and mature pods of cacao. This study investigated the predatory behavior of O. javanus on H. bakeri and the life history of O. javanus under laboratory conditions. The study showed that the adult spider (male or female) prefers adult mirid bug as food. A single adult spider consumed 2-4 adult mirid bugs per day. Of the total O. javanus individuals, 80% captured their prey upon release inside the cage within 7.25 ± 2.5 minutes. The longest time recorded before a spider would catch a prey averaged 20.45 ± 6.11 minutes. Eggs of O. javanus were collected and observed. The incubation period ranged from 21-28 days. Nymphs had 8-11 molts before adult spiders emerged. Females needed 2-3 extra molts before reaching sexual maturity. Adult males of O. javanus are 8.11 ± 1.25 mm long and, thus, smaller than females, which are usually 12.39 ± 1.25 mm long.

Source or Periodical Title

The Philippine Entomologist

ISSN

0048-3753

Volume

31

Issue

2

Page

145

Document Type

Article

Frequency

semi-annually

Language

English

En – AGROVOC descriptors

OXYOPES; HELOPELTIES; INSECTA; PESTS; PEST INSECTS; PREDATORY INSECTS; PREDATORS; PREDATION; HELOPELTIES; BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AGENTS; BIOLOGICAL CONTROL; NATURAL ENEMIES

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