Influence of temperature on the predation efficiency of the ant Crematogaster scutellaris on the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis

Abstract: We examined the predation efficiency of Crematogaster scutellaris against
Frankliniella occidentalis under different temperature conditions. Laboratory assays were
executed in microcosms containing bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris) with various life stages of F. occidentalis.
C. scutellaris proved to be an effective predator against F. occidentalis. At each
temperature tested, we observed a significant effect of the presence of the ant on the population size of F. occidentalis. However, the ant’s ability to control F. occidentalis was significantly lower at 15 °C than at 25 °C.