Literature currently available on the population dynamics of insect herbivores tends to favour top-down
regulation of abundance by the action of natural enemies. This unique volume challenges this paradigm
and shows that tree dwelling species of aphids, through competition for resources, regulate their own
abundance. The biology of tree dwelling aphids is examined, particularly their adaptation to the seasonal
development of their host plants. When host plant quality is favourable aphids, by telescoping generations,
can achieve prodigious rates of increase, which their natural enemies are unable to match. Using analyses
from long-term population studies and experiments, this book introduces students and research workers to
insect herbivore-host dynamics using the interaction between aphids and trees as a model.
Comprehensive and concise
Written by leader in the field
A considerable number of graphs to illustrate correlations easily
Contents
1. Introduction;
2. Tree dwelling aphids;
3. Trees as a habitat for aphids: relation
to host plant;
4. Trees as a habitat for aphids: relation to natural enemies;
