The Influence of Predators on the Movement of Apterous Pea Aphids between Plants

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Abstract
The influence of predators on the dispersal of apterous pea aphids [Acyrthosiphon pisum] in the laboratory and field is examined. Individual pea aphids can be placed in 1 of 2 categories, searchers and runners, depending upon the behavior they exhibit after dropping from their host plant [Vicia faba cv. Exhibition Long pad]. In field cages, pea aphids readily disperse to new host plants in the presence of predators. Dispersal of apterous aphids is rare when active predators are absent. Evidence is presented which suggests fecundity is reduced the day after an aphid disperses. The distance dispersed by aphid nymphs is positively correlated with the density of aphids on the plant the aphid leaves. The significance of dispersal by apterous aphids is discussed.