Author:

Keywords:

Aphidius spp., Capillary Feeder assay, Dendrocerus aphidum, Longevity, Sugar consumption

Abstract:

Biological control using natural enemies such as predators and parasitoids has become an important alternative way of pest management. However, the efficacy of biological control can be seriously hampered by the lack of carbohydrate-rich food in modern agricultural systems. Most natural enemies require nectar or other sugar sources for growth, survival and reproduction during their adult stage. Therefore, additional food sources such as nectar or sugar solutions are often provided. Nonetheless, a major challenge in biological control remains to attract and retain beneficial insects in the crop so that they can control the pest insects whenever needed. Recently, it has been shown that specific plant- and insect-associated microbes are able to attract and retain natural enemies in the crop, and therefore can enhance the efficacy of biological control programs. The aim of this study is to develop a mechanical device that will enhance biological control efficacy by combining natural enemy attracting microbes with a suitable sugar solution that will ensure rapid population build-up of the beneficial insects. To accomplish these research goals, we used the aphid species Myzus persicae and its parasitoid Aphidius sp. as a study model. Our current progress in this research will be presented during the presentation.