Methods for Rearing the Parasitoid Ganaspis brasiliensis, a Promising Biological Control Agent for the Invasive Drosophila suzukii

作者： Marco Valerio Rossi-Stacconi1, Xingeng Wang2, Amanda Stout2, Lorenzo Fellin1,3, Kent M. Daane4, Antonio Biondi5, Judith M. Stahl4, Matthew L. Buffington6, Gianfranco Anfora1,3, Kim A. Hoelmer2 1Research and Innovation Centre,Fondazione Edmund Mach, 2Beneficial Insects Introduction Research Unit,Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, 3Center for Agriculture, Food and Environment,University of Trento, 4Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Management,University of California Berkeley, 5Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment,University of Catania, 6Systematic Entomology Laboratory,Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture

简介：

Overview

This study addresses the rearing protocols for Ganaspis brasiliensis, a larval parasitoid of the invasive pest Drosophila suzukii. The methods outlined provide efficient techniques for small-scale and large-scale rearing, facilitating the use of this bio-control agent against a significant agricultural pest.

Key Study Components

Research Area

• Biological control of agricultural pests
• Rearing techniques for parasitoids
• Invasive species management

Background

• Ganaspis brasiliensis is being considered for introduction in Europe and the United States.
• Drosophila suzukii poses a significant threat to fruit crops globally.
• Effective rearing methods are crucial for the long-term research and application of biological control agents.

Methods Used

• Protocols for diet preparation and maintaining environmental conditions
• Rearing of Drosophila suzukii to provide hosts
• Methods for adult collection and shipping of parasitoids

Main Results

• Successful small-scale rearing of Ganaspis brasiliensis was demonstrated.
• Large-scale generation began five weeks post-exposure to Drosophila suzukii.
• Rearing density and exposure time did not affect offspring production.

Conclusions

• The study provides comprehensive protocols for rearing a promising bio-control agent.
• It highlights the importance of maintaining optimal conditions for effective parasitoid production.

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