Hyperparasitic showdown: Sclerodermus cereicollis, a non-aggressive but surprisingly secondary hyperparasitoid

Autor: Serena Malabusini, Daniela Lupi
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2024
Předmět:
Zdroj: Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research, Vol 56, Iss 1 (2024)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 2038-324X
2279-7084
DOI: 10.4081/jear.2024.12507
Popis: This study investigates the dynamics of hyperparasitism within the Bethylidae family, focusing on the interaction between Sclerodermus cereicollis and Goniozus legneri, two parasitoid wasp species characterized by different sociality and aggressivity towards conspecifics. Experimental trials were conducted using Corcyra cephalonica larvae as hosts, with different setups to stimulate competition. The results revealed unexpected behaviors, especially by S. cereicollis, including aggressive interactions, cannibalism, and hyperparasitism. In contrast, despite the typically aggressive nature of G. legneri, no particular hostility was observed toward S. cereicollis. The study highlights the complex dynamics of competition for resources among parasitoids, shedding light on the adaptive strategies and fitness costs associated with hyperparasitism. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the ecological interactions within parasitoid wasp communities.
Databáze: Directory of Open Access Journals