Effect of plant species and organic matter on feeding behaviour and weight gain of larval black beetle, <i>Heteronychus arator</i> (Coleoptera: Sacrabaeidae)

Abstract

The effect of ryegrass (Lolium perenne) , white clover (Trifolium repens) , and Lotus pedunculatus on the movement and feeding behaviour of 3rd‐instar larvae of Heteronychus arator (Fabricius) and the influence of organic matter on these responses were studied. In choice chamber tests larvae did not aggregate at plant roots but did aggregate at organic matter (sieved horticultural peat). Weight gain was greater on ryegrass than on white clover or lotus. Organic matter stimulated feeding and increased weight gain. Evidence for both plant roots and organic matter being phagostimulants is discussed.