Project Number: 1926-22000-026-12
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Sep 01, 2011
End Date: Aug 31, 2016

Objective:
The objectives of this project will be: 1) to identify and assess the impact and phenology of indigenous brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) natural enemies in specialty crops; 2) to evaluate the host range and efficacy of imported Asian natural enemies of BMSB; 3) and 3) integrate biological control research findings with other management tools to form and deliver practical outcomes for stakeholders.

Approach:
The BMSB, Halyomorpha halys (Stal), is an invasive insect native to China, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan that was introduced into the US in the mid 1990s. Damage in affected crops has now reached critical levels with some growers losing their entire crops. Preliminary research showed that native natural enemy activity against BMSB is minimal, but this needs to be verified across a broad range of habitat types. Field surveys will be conducted in conjunction with cooperators in various impacted crops and associated natural habitats to identify and quantify the impact (or lack of impact) of BMSB natural enemies in impacted regions of the U.S. In addition, imported Asian natural enemies of BMSB obtained through foreign exploration will be evaluated in quarantine to determine their host range, efficacy, and safety as potential classical biological control agents for introduction into the U.S. Natural enemies for which release permits can be obtained will be released for establishment against BMSB in conjunction with cooperators in impacted regions.