Understanding the trophic relationships amongst arthropods in olive grove by δN ¹⁵ and δC ¹³ stable isotope analysis

So far the limited knowledge about diet of omnivores and generalist predators in olive groves has not allowed clarification their role as natural enemies. Stable isotope (δN15 δC13) analysis is a useful tool for predicting trophic position high number species, variety basal resources flux energy food web. We have explored possible consumers two important pests grove: adults Prays oleae Bern (Lepidoptera: Praydidae) during its anthophagous generation pupae Bactrocera (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae). In addition, we included study adult instar secondary pest Euphyllura olivina (Costa) (Hemiptera: Psyllidae). These arthropods were clustered isotopic groups according to similarities δN15 δC13 content assuming that, this case, they shared similar feeding habits. Using criterion, obtained eight isotopically different eleven phytophagous insects. used Bayesian mixing models order identify potential our proportion that each occupied identified predators. Different taxa spiders Anthocoris nemoralis (Fabricius) Anthocoridae) emerged B. oleae. Moreover, Gnaphosidae (Araneae) showed suitable characteristics be predator P. A. been confirmed E. olivina. The presence an abundant resource encourages settlement enemies orchards which feed on pest, but are also ready any insect outbreak, example