Effect of inter-individual cooperation on the predatory capability of Eocanthecona furcellata (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) on the larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

In order to evaluate the predatory capabilities of Eocanthecona furcellata on the larvae of the important agricultural pest, Spodoptera frugiperda (fall armyworm) properly, this study examined the influence of individual collaboration on the predation efficacy of E. furcellata. This was achieved by simultaneously increasing the populations of both predators and preying while maintaining a consistent predator-to-prey ratio. The findings revealed that the younger nymphs (2^nd and 3^rd instar) of E. furcellata were incapable of preying on the 5^th instar larvae of S. frugiperda individually. Nevertheless, these younger nymphs exhibited the ability to engage in cooperative hunting. When groups of more than three 2^nd instar nymphs and more than one 3^rd instar nymphs respectively were able to prey on the 5^th instar larvae successfully, indicating a pronounced synergistic effect. And the 4^th and 5^th instar nymphs, along with female adults of E. furcellata, exhibited strong predatory capabilities, with each capable of preying on the 5^th instar larvae of S. frugiperda independently. However, more partners did not yield a significant synergistic enhancement of their predation. These findings provide reference for the predatory abilities across different developmental stages of E. furcellata and their potential applications in agricultural pest management.