Oecanthus pellucens (Scopoli, 1763) (Gryllidae) is recorded for the first time as a predator on the larvae of Thaumetopoea pityocampa (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775) (PPM) in Bulgaria. The Italian tree crickets were observed in black pine plantations (Pinus nigra Arn.), in the region of Fotinovo vill. (Eastern Rhodope Mts.), occupied by the PPM summer population.
"Known insect predators of the PPM (on eggs, larvae or adults) are: ... Dermestes lardarius Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera, Dermestidae) (Tsankov 1960)" |