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VOL. 11, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Updated checklist of tri-trophic associations of arthropod predators of aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in Meghalaya, India
Authors
Rajendra Singh
Abstract
The present checklist documented 23
aphidophagous predator species belonging to Coleoptera (Coccinellidae) and Diptera
(Syrphidae) in Meghalaya, associated with 15 aphid taxa infesting 24 host plant
species, forming 123 tri-trophic associations. Coccinellid beetles exhibited
greater diversity and broader prey ranges than syrphid flies. Among predators, Coccinella
septempunctata was the most generalized species, associated with eight
aphid species on 15 host plants, accounting for the highest number of triplets
(17). Oenopia sexareata, Oenopia kirbyi, and Harmonia eucharis
also showed broad trophic associations, preying upon 7–8 aphid species. Among
syrphids, Syrphus torvus exhibited the widest host range, feeding on three
aphid species across eight host plants, particularly within brassicaceous
crops. Among aphids, Brevicoryne brassicae supported the highest
predator diversity, being associated with 12 predator species on seven host
plants, resulting in 47 triplets. Likewise, Aphis gossypii and Lipaphis
erysimi formed extensive associations with 10 and 11 predator species,
respectively. Host plant analysis revealed that brassicaceous crops formed the
major ecological centre of predator–aphid interactions in Meghalaya,
particularly involving Brassica juncea, Brassica rapa, and
cultivars of Brassica oleracea. In contrast, forest and wild plants such
as Pinus kesiya, Quercus serrata, and Osbeckia crinita
supported only isolated associations, reflecting limited records from natural
ecosystems. The comparatively lower recorded diversity of aphidophagous
predators in Meghalaya, despite its rich flora and fauna, is likely due to limited
documentation rather than actual ecological scarcity.
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Pages:388-395
How to cite this article:
Rajendra Singh "Updated checklist of tri-trophic associations of arthropod predators of aphids (<i>Hemiptera</i>: <i>Aphididae</i>) in Meghalaya, India". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 11, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 388-395
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