Abstract
Laboratory-reared Cotesia melanoscela (Ratzeburg) were released sequentially over 3 wk at an average level of 12,000 females per ha in three isolated mixed-hardwood woodlots infested with gypsy moth on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Southwood's area under the curve method was used to estimate generational levels of parasitism for the first three instars of the gypsy moth and rates of parasitism were estimated from gypsy moth larvae collected from various canopy strata and host tree species. Significantly higher rates of generational parasitism were achieved in release woodlots (15.4%) than in control woodlots (5.1%). Cotesia melanoscela parasitized a greater proportion of larvae occurring in the upper canopy of trees. Despite significantly higher rates of parasitism in release woodlots, inundative releases of the Korean strain of C. melanoscela failed to reduce gypsy moth populations as determined from egg mass counts.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
