Ecology and Behaviour of the Ladybird Beetles (Coccinellidae)

Ecology and Behaviour of the Ladybird Beetles (Coccinellidae) By
2012 | 599 Pages | ISBN: 1405184221 | PDF | 6 MB
Ladybirds are probably the best known predators of aphids and coccids in the world, though this greatly underestimates the diversity of their biology. Maximising their impact on their prey is an important element in modern conservation biological control of indigenous natural enemies in contrast to the classical approach of releasing alien species. Ivo Hodek is one of the most internationally respected experts on coccinellids who has researched these insects for his entire career. He has now brought together 14 scientists of international standing to author 12 chapters, making this book the definitive treatment of coccinellid biology and ecology. This volume covers the rapid scientific developments of recent years in the understanding of coccinellid phylogeny, the semiochemicals influencing their behaviour and of molecular genetics. Recent insights in relation to intraguild predation and the assessment of the predatory impact of coccinellids are also covered. Other special features of the volume are the extensive references covering the literature from both East and West and a taxonomic glossary of the up-to-date nomenclature for species of coccinellids as well as of other organisms mentioned in the text. While aimed at researchers, university teachers and agricultural entomologists, the book is readable and appropriate for others who just have a liking for these interesting and attractive insects.Content: Chapter 1 Phylogeny and Classification (pages 1-12): Oldrich Nedved and Ivo KovarChapter 2 Genetic Studies (pages 13-53): John J. Sloggett and Alois HonekChapter 3 Life History and Development (pages 54-109): Oldrich Nedved and Alois HonekChapter 4 Distribution and Habitats (pages 110-140): Alois HonekChapter 5 Food Relationships (pages 141-274): Ivo Hodek and Edward W. EvansChapter 6 Diapause/Dormancy (pages 275-342): Ivo HodekChapter 7 Intraguild Interactions (pages 343-374): Eric LucasChapter 8 Natural Enemies of Ladybird Beetles (pages 375-443): Piotr Ceryngier, Helen E. Roy and Remy L. PolandChapter 9 Coccinellids and Semiochemicals (pages 444-464): Jan PetterssonChapter 10 Quantifying the Impact of Coccinellids on their Prey (pages 465-487): J. P. Michaud and James D. HarwoodChapter 11 Coccinellids in Biological Control (pages 488-519): J. P. MichaudChapter 12 Recent Progress and Possible Future Trends in the Study of Coccinellidae (pages 520-525): Helmut F. van Emden and Ivo Hodek