Influences of Trees on Abundance of Natural Enemies of Insect Pests: A Review

Authors

Mary Ellen Dix, United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service
R. J. Johnson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Mark O. Harrell, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Ronald M. Case, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Robert J. Wright, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Laurie Hodges, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
James R. Brandle, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Michelle M. Schoeneberger, United States Department of Agriculture Forest ServiceFollow
N. J. Sunderman, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
R. L. Fitzmaurice, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Linda J. Young, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Kenneth G. Hubbard, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

1995

Comments

Published in Agroforestry Systems (1995) 29: 303-311.

Abstract

In this article we review the use of natural enemies in crop pest management and describe research needed to better meet information needs for practical applications. Endemic natural enemies (predators and parasites) offer a potential but understudied approach to controlling insect pests in agricultural systems. With the current high interest in environmental stewardship, such an approach has special appeal as a method to reduce the need for pesticides while maintaining agricultural profitability. Habitat for sustaining populations of natural enemies occurs primarily at field edges where crops and edge vegetation meet. Conservation and enhancement of natural enemies might include manipulation of plant species and plant arrangement, particularly at these edges; and consideration of optimum field sizes, number of edges, and management practices in and near edges. Blending the benefits of agricultural and forestry (windbreak) systems is one promising approach to field edge management that has additional benefits of wind protection and conservation of desirable wildlife species.