Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

This study investigated principal mechanisms behind intercropping oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) with winter pea (Pisum sativum cv. ‘Pandora’ L.) such as influences on insect behaviour and changes of volatile emissions. The research focused on two key oilseed rape pests: the pollen beetle (Brassicogethes aeneus) and the cabbage seed weevil (Ceutorhynchus assimilis), along with their associated parasitoid wasps. Behavioural responses were tested using Y-tube olfactometer assays, where insects were exposed to three plant combinations: oilseed rape alone, pea alone, and both species intercropped. In a separate experiment, volatiles were collected from the same plant combinations and analysed using GC-MS. Results from the volatile analysis demonstrated that the oilseed rape's emission profile changed when intercropped with pea. Although the behavioural assays examined insect responses to these combinations, further research is needed to directly link observed behavioural trends to changes in plant volatiles. Overall, the findings suggest that intercropping might influence multitrophic interactions through both behavioural and physiological mechanisms, which could have important implications for integrated pest management.