Larval feeding behaviour of Tetanocera elata (Diptera: Sciomyzidae): potential biocontrol agent of pestiferous slugs

Abstract

Examining predatory behaviour is useful for determining the potential of novel biocontrol agents. We investigated the predatory behaviour of Tetanocera elata (Fabricius) larvae on the pestiferous slug Deroceras reticulatum (Müller). Results indicate three prey-finding strategies, including the predator reaching its prey without previous contact with it or its mucus trail.

Keywords:

• slug predator
• prey-finding strategies
• trail following

Acknowledgements

Thanks to Kate McAney for the use of the infrared digital camera used in this project.

Funding

This research was funded by a National University of Ireland Galway College of Science Scholarship.

Additional information

Funding

Funding: This research was funded by a National University of Ireland Galway College of Science Scholarship.