Insect biodiversity in maize polyculture systems (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

Conventional agriculture implies the simplification of the structure of the environment with a considerable decrease in natural diversity. Supported by the practice of polycultures (corn-pumpkin, corn-bean, corn-beans, corn-sunflower), a group of experiments aimed at favoring insect diversity were developed. The research was carried out in 2017, 2018 and 2019, in the municipality of Fomento, Sancti Spíritus Province, Cuba, belonging to the Ramón Ponciano Agricultural Enterprise. Carried out on a randomized block design, its objectives were to identify the species of insects associated with the maize crop, to characterize the natural enemies present in maize in polyculture systems, as well as to determine the ecological indices of richness, equity and dominance. After the research was carried out, 24 insect species were identified: 9 harmful and 15 beneficial. The most representative species of bioregulators were as predators Mixogaster sp and Scymnus sp and as parasites L. achyppivora and A. peliventri. The phytophagous S. frugiperda was the most important throughout the crop cycle. From the biodiversity point of view, the polycultures showed the greatest biological diversity due to a greater richness, diversity and equity of insects than the monoculture, with M+A standing out.