ARS | Publication request: RESEARCH ON PARASITOIDS OF BUPRESTIDS IN PROGRESS AT THE ARS BENEFICIAL INSECTS INTRODUCTION RESEARCH UNIT

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: November 20, 2005
Publication Date: January 20, 2006
Citation: Fuester, R.W., Schaefer, P.W. 2005. Research on parasitoids of buprestids in progress at the ARS Beneficial Insects Introduction Research Unit, In Proceedings, Emerald Ash Borer Research and Technology Development Meeting, September 26-27, 2005. USDA, FHTET-2005-16. p. 53-55.

Technical Abstract: In 2003, the ARS Beneficial Insects Introduction Research Unit at Newark, DE, initiated studies on natural enemies of the Emerald Ash Borer, Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), a new invasive species lethal to Ash trees (Fraxinus spp.). First discovered in Michigan in 2002, it probably was introduced into the U.S. at least five years earlier from Asia, its native origin. In 2003-2004, explorations for natural enemies of the pest were conducted in Japan, Korea, and Mongolia, but no suitable populations of the borer were found. Therefore, explorations in 2005-2006 will be conducted in China. In 2005, we started searching for natural enemies of native buprestid beetles that might attack the target pest as well. Investigations on both Asian and North American species will focus on natural enemies having the following generally accepted characteristics: (1) high searching ability, (2) adaptability to a range of ecological conditions including recovery from North American Fraxinus spp. planted in Asia, (3) high reproductive capacity relative to the pest, (4) good synchrony with the pest, and (5) a high degree of host/prey specificity. Using these approaches, which are relevant to the knowledge base of this insect and its natural enemies, this project seeks to reduce populations of this pest below economic threshold levels without adverse effects on the environment.