A Catalogue of Tri-Trophic Associations of Arthropod Predators, Aphids, and Their Host Plants in Different Districts of Maharashtra, India

Abstract

The present article deals with the tri-trophic associations of aphidophagous arthropods in Maharashtra, India. The compiled data reveal 354 distinct tri-trophic associations involving 51 aphidophagous predator species (insects and spiders), 17 aphid species, and 26 host plant species across 14 districts of the state. Predators belong to two arthropod classes, Arachnida (Araneae: seven spider families) and Insecta (Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera, and Neuroptera), encompassing both generalist and specialist feeding guilds. Coccinellidae emerged as the most species-rich and widely distributed group (23 species; 207 associations), followed by spiders (17 species; 65 associations) and Syrphidae (five species; 40 associations). Aphid–predator interactions were most frequent on Aphis gossypii, Myzus persicae, Aphis craccivora, Lipaphis erysimi, Rhopalosiphum maidis, and Ceratovacuna lanigera, primarily on economically important crops.
Spatially, Kolhapur, Pune, Akola, and Aurangabad accounted for the majority of records, while nearly two-thirds of Maharashtra remains unexplored. Overall, the results indicate a functionally integrated but comparatively under-documented trophic network relative to northern Indian states. This consolidated account provides a critical baseline for ecological research, biodiversity assessment, and the development of region-specific integrated pest management strategies in Maharashtra.