Abstract:

Taraka hamada is an important natural enemy of the bamboo aphids. In order to promote the potential of T.hamada in being used as a bio-control agent for aphids, a field investigation and laboratory bioassaiy were conducted. Several parameters, including frequency, abundance and daily consumption, and control effect, were measured. The results showed that T.hamada had a similar dynamics as aphids did in bamboo. The frequency and abundance of T. hamada were significantly higher than that of other three aphid natural enemies, Harmonia axyridis, Episyrphus balteatus and Chrysopa formosa. Both of daily consumption and control effect of T. hamada were obviously higher than that of other natural enemies.

Key words: Taraka hamada, bamboo aphids, natural enemies, control effect