Measurement and analysis of arthropod predation on velvetbean caterpillar, Anticarsia gemmatalis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), in soybeans

Arthropod predation on small (second instar) velvetbean caterpillar, Anticarsia gemmatalis Hubner, in Florida soybeans, Glycine max (L.), by a complex of arthropod predators was measured using cage exclusion techniques. Average per capita rates of predation remained relatively constant during two seasons. Relative contributions of the species composition of predator complexes, predator number, small velvetbean caterpillar number, temperature, and soybean leaf area to predation dynamics are described. The searching universe of predators in soybeans was influenced by the dynamics of soybean leaf area. Compensation for leaf area changes by predators searching more area is suggested as an important factor influencing predation on small velvetbean caterpillar in soybean.