An Upadated Checklist of Tri-Trophic Associations of Arthropod Predators, Aphids, and Their Host Plants in Different Districts of Rajasthan, India
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Abstract
The study documents 96 tri-trophic associations involving 20 predator species, 11 aphid species, and 35 host plants across 9 districts of Rajasthan. The network ranges from highly specialised to strongly polyphagous interactions. Coccinellidae dominated, with Coccinella septempunctata and Cheilomenes sexmaculata showing the highest ecological amplitude (21 triplets each). Syrphids exhibited moderate diversity, while hemipterans were limited and Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi represented the most important neuropteran predator. Among aphids, Lipaphis erysimi and Brevicoryne brassicae were the most widely exploited, whereas Aphis nerii and Rhopalosiphum padi were highly specialised. Cruciferous crops (Brassica spp.) formed the main centres of interaction, followed by Coriandrum sativum and Zea mays. Udaipur emerged as the main hotspot, while other districts showed moderate to low diversity. The limited distribution of records is primarily due to insufficient survey effort, along with ecological and agricultural factors. Overall, the results highlight a complex but underexplored tri-trophic network with strong implications for biological control.
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