Within-plant distribution of predators on cotton: Comments on sampling and predator efficiencies

Abstract

Within-plant distribution of four predators found in California cotton fields is described. Adult stages of all predators were found in greatest frequency in the terminal portions of the plant, and, within that region, adults tended to be more common on fruiting parts than the same species of larvae. In general, the smaller predators, Geocoris and Orius, were found higher on the plant than the larger predators Cbrysopa (larvae) and Nabis. Their respective areas of activity corresponded to the location of suitably sized (stages) prey. Those predators closest to the plant terminal were more effectively sampled with the standard University of California sweepnet.