Location: Beneficial Insects Introduction Research Unit
Project Number: 8010-22000-033-002-R
Project Type: Reimbursable Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Oct 1, 2016
End Date: Aug 31, 2021
Objective:
Brown marmorated stink bug attacks a wide range of crops and ornamentals, with management currently relying heavily on repeated insecticide applications. Successful conclusion of research and quarantine testing of imported Asian biological control agents for management of this pest, begun during an expiring 5-year SCRI project, requires additional research on the behavior and ecology of the candidate biocontrol agent.
Approach:
The planned role for the Newark laboratory will be to:
1) Maintain colonies of BMSB parasitoids obtained in Asia and document its natural host range in Asia.
2) Conduct behavioral studies of BMSB parasitoids in quarantine culture.
3) Conduct research on safety and efficacy that support petitions for field release and wider distribution of BMSB parasitoids.
