ISSN:
1432-1939
Keywords:
Iridomyrmex humilis
;
Predation
;
Host range
;
Prey acceptability
;
Lepidoptera
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Summary Experiments are described which test the hypothesis that more host-specific species of caterpillars should be less aceptable to a generalist predator than polyphagous species. Caterpillars of all species were tested in paired choice tests with the Argentine ant, Iridomyrmex humilis. Experiments were replicated ten times, videotaped and later analyzed. Brightly colored specialist species (normally considered to be aposematic) were clearly the least palatable, while more cryptic specialists were also significantly less acceptable than generalists overall. Leaf-tying species were considered separately; all were highly palatable independent of host range. The results indicate that among caterpillars that do not construct leaf shelters, those with a wide post range are more acceptable than those with a narrow host range. This is consistent with the notion that generalist predators provide selection pressure favoring narrow host range in their herbivorous prey.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00384324
