Abstract:

To elucidate the occurrence of insect pests in Artemisia argyi during different periods of its growing season, this study investigated the species composition, diversity, and temporal dynamics of pests and their natural enemies in Artemisia argyi plantations. Seven sampling points were selected from March to June 2025 for investigation, recording a total of 59 insect species, 2 mite species, 5 spider species, and 1 millipede species. Among them, Coleoptera (22.49 %) and Hemiptera (20.90 %) were the dominant groups. Significant temporal changes were observed in the types, population densities, and dominant species of pests, alongside dynamic fluctuations in the composition and abundance of natural enemy communities. In the early period (March), the total arthropod population was low, with pests primarily consisting of Orthoptera nymphs, such as Tettigonia chinensis. By April, the total individual count surged, and the outbreak of Macrosiphoniella kuwayamai emerged as the predominant pest. In early May, M. kuwayamai populations remained high, while a dramatic increase in natural enemy mites (Anystis sp.) was noted. By mid-May, Colasposoma dauricum became the new absolute dominant pest with a sharp increase in numbers. Concurrently, M. kuwayamai populations remained elevated, but Anystis sp. numbers significantly declined. In mid-June, Empoasca flavescens populations rose significantly, while other pest numbers decreased. Correlation analysis between pests and natural enemies indicated no statistically significant linear relationship in their dynamic succession during the Artemisia argyi growing season. However, smooth curve analysis revealed a very significant and complex non-linear dynamic. This study provides a scientific basis for the monitoring and early warning of Artemisia argyi pests and the construction of ecological prevention and control system. In the future, the correlation between pests and chemical components of Artemisia argyi and the control efficiency of natural enemies can be further studied.

Key words: Artemisia argyi, pests, natural enemies, species diversity, occurrence pattern, dynamic changes, green control