Differences in the results between field and laboratory host range of three species of Gonatocerus (Mymaridae): Implications for biocontrol

LOGARZO, GUILLERMO; VIRLA, EDUARDO G.; LUFT ALBRARRACÍN, ERICA B.

Cardiff, Wales

Workshop; IX European Workshop on Insect Parasitoids; 2005

University of Cardiff

The host ranges of three egg parasitoids (Gonatocerus sp., G. tuberculifemur, and G. annulicornis) from Argentina are being studied for the biological control of Glassy winged sharpshooter (H. coagulata) in the United States. Laboratory results showed that the three parasitoids were restricted to the subfamily Cicadellinae, tribe Proconiini (to which H. coagulata belongs). In field studies, G. tuberculifemur used some leafhoppers from the Cicadellini tribe but they did not do so in the laboratory. Possible explanations of the results and implications for biological control are discussed.