Dynamics of Predatory Syrphidae in the Apple Orchard and Neighbouring Shrubberies

Shrubberies which neighbour on an orchard are among the significant structures enhancing agrocenoses. Such shrubberies maintain species diversity and stimulate self-control mechanisms in biocenoses. For these reasons, from 1999 to 2001, studies were conducted concerning predatory Syrphidae (Diptera) occurring in the orchard and shrubberies in the immediate vicinity. A quantity and quality analysis of predatory hoverflies (Diptera, Syrphidae) was performed. A total of 801 specimens were caught in both habitats. There were 20 species recorded there (12% of the national fauna of this predatory family). The studies proved that the orchard and the neighbouring shrubberies can be alternative habitats for Syrphidae (Diptera). There is also a possibility of the predators migrating from the shrubberies to the orchard, enhancing the potential to control the abundant Hemiptera species in the orchard. The shrubberies then become an important element of the agrocenosis structure, due to their biocenotic functions.