The integration of the parasitoid 'Microplitis demolitor' Wilkinson (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) into integrated pest management systems in Australian cotton

Abstract

Cotton production in Australia, the ecology of the key pests of Australian cotton, 'Helicoverpa' spp., and integrated pest management (IPM) in Australian cotton were reviewed. 'Microplitis demolitor' Wilkinson (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a key beneficial and a critical component for the success of IPM in Australian cotton. The ecology of 'M. demolitor' and effects of insecticides on the life stages of 'M. demolitor' were studied, in an attempt to promote conservation and increase the role of 'M. demolitor' in IPM. This study showed that 'Helicoverpa' spp. larvae parasitised by 'M demolitor' cause insignificant damage compared to unparasitised larvae, with a parasitised larva consuming approximately 5% of that consumed by a healthy larva. This means that parasitised larvae should be tolerated and not counted in larvae checks to determine spray decisions. 'M demolitor' larvae took 10 days to complete larval development at 25°C, 60-70% relative humidity and a 14:10 light:dark photoperiod. These data contribute to the basic understanding of the ecology of 'M demolitor'.