Aphid diversity and associated natural enemies on fruit trees in northeastern Algeria: A one-season survey in a Mediterranean agroecosystem

This study investigated aphid diversity and associated natural enemies on fruit trees in eastern Algeria, with particular attention to host plant associations, seasonal population dynamics, and multitrophic interactions. In addition to hymenopteran parasitoids, hyperparasitoids, and predatory natural enemies, field observations documented a diverse array of aphid species associated with various fruit tree hosts. Aphid abundance varied significantly over time among host plants, according to statistical analyses, suggesting unique seasonal patterns and host-dependent population dynamics. While Punica granatum exhibited a clear late-season pattern, aphid populations typically increased in the spring and early summer. Additionally, parasitoid assemblages differed among host plants, with some host species exhibiting comparatively high richness and evenness. These findings highlight the complexity of aphid–natural enemy interactions in Mediterranean fruit tree agroecosystems and provide preliminary baseline data on trophic associations in northeastern Algeria. Although the study was conducted over a single season, the results provide useful ecological information for future multi-season monitoring and the development of environmentally sustainable aphid management strategies.