Host Densities in a Transient Plant Community and Their Effects on Portions of the Arthropod Community1

Abstract

Nine different planting densities were utilized to investigate the effects of host plant spatial designs on the arthropod community asociated with Radar-2 oats (Avena sativa L.). The oats were seeded in 3-, 6-, and 12-in. row widths at 1, 2, and 4 bu/acre. Sampling was conducted by the removal sweep method throughout the 1963-64 growing season. The smallest number of phytophagous arthropods per plant was recovered from the plantings having 3-in. row widths, planted with 1 and 2 bu of seed per acre, respectively. Other plots appeared less favorable except for those with 12-in.-row widths sown at 1 bu/acre, in which the highest predator-prey ratio was noted.