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The influence of host plant genotype on variation in population densities of the gorse thrips, Sericothrips staphylinus (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), and its consideration in relation to release strategies
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-16, 22:16 authored by Ireson, J, Holloway, RJ, Chatterton, WSLarge variations in population densities of Sericothrips staphylinus were observed between gorse bushes at a field site in an earlier Tasmanian study. A replicated potted plant experiment was conducted to assess whether genetic variation between gorse bushes could affect densities of S. staphylinus. There were significant differences in the number of S. staphylinus recovered from the individual bushes sampled within sites and individual bushes across all sites. This provides evidence that genetic variation between gorse bushes is at least partly responsible for the observed variability in field populations. The result validates the current release strategy used for the field establishment of S. staphylinus in south-eastern Australia. This strategy involves making multiple small releases (ca. 250 adults per bush per site) instead of a small number of large releases (ca. 1000 per bush per site), thereby reducing variation in numbers due to genetic affects. Genetic variation between individual plants of the same species and associated effects on herbivore densities should be considered when devising release strategies for biological control agents. © 2008 Taylor & Francis.
Funding
Natural Heritage Trust
History
Publication title
Biocontrol Science & TechnologyVolume
18Issue
9Pagination
949-955ISSN
0958-3157Department/School
Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA)Publisher
Taylor & Francis LtdPlace of publication
United KingdomRepository Status
- Restricted