INSECTOS ASOCIADOS A Alpinia purpurata (Vieill.) K. Schum. (ZINGIBERACEAE) EN MACEIÓ Y RIO LARGO (AL), BRASIL

Abstract

Due the fast growing in flowers and ornamental plants production and their high export potential, it is important to identify the insects species associated with Alpinia purpurata (Vieill.) K. Schum crops and to establish their role in this agroecosystem/production system The insects were collected from A. purpurata cv. Pink Ginger and Red Ginger plants cultivated in two farmswith different agroecological characteristics, located in two recognized tropical flower production areas/regions, Maceió and Río Largo cities/localities, Alagoas state, during one year. They were identified and its frequency analyzed according with a numerical scale. According to the results was collected 790 insects of which 69 were identified to specific level, belonging to 59 families of 9 ordens. Results showed Hymenoptera individuals as the most frequent, mainly predator ants and/or associated with phytophagous insects (sucking), besides natural enemies, followed by Hemiptera and Lepidoptera orders, which involved recognized agricultural pests. Insects belonging to the order Odonata and Orthoptera were found less frequently.