The significance of host patch edges to the colonization and development of Corythucha marmorata (Hemiptera: Tingidae)

Abstract. 1. Corythucha marmorata (Hemiptera: Tingidae) was more abundant in clusters of small experimental patches of its host plant, goldenrod (Solidago altissima) , than in large patches covering the same area.
2. Adults and egg masses were more abundant on stems on the edges of the patches than on those in the interior.
3. Female Cmarmorata caged on edge plants laid more eggs than females caged on interior plants, and eggs on exposed plants developed faster than those in the middle of a pacth.
4. A preference for edges results in negative 'response' to patch size because large patches invariably have a lower proportion of edge than small patches.