encouraging natural enemies by growing attractive plants is considered an effective method of pest control in organic farming. however, it is important to identify which flowers best attract beneficial insects. in this study, relative attractiveness of 16 species of flowering plants to adult hoverflies was assessed by conducting timed observations of feeding-visit frequencies. the experiments w...

Abstract The aim of the research was to study diversity hoverflies (Syrphidae: Diptera) living in areas under influence heavy metal emissions (Cd, Zn and Pb). Although area Olkusz Ore-bearing Region (OOR), where partially conducted, belongs contaminated regions, a relatively high species richness Syrphids has been noted. During period, total 1,180 syrphids, belonging 165 were caught, which cons...

BACKGROUND The sesquiterpene (E)-ß-farnesene is the main component of the alarm pheromone system of various aphid species studied to date, including the English grain aphid, Sitobion avenae. Aphid natural enemies, such as the marmalade hoverfly Episyrphus balteatus and the multicolored Asian lady beetle Harmonia axyridis, eavesdrop on aphid chemical communication and utilize (E)-ß-farnesene as ...