Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Chromatomyia syngenesiae (Diptera: Agromyzidae) = Phytomyza atricornis, leaf miners

Agent introduced: Diglyphus isaea (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae)

Imported: Probably in New Zealand before deliberate importations began. Re-introduced in shipments also containing other Diglyphus species from 1969-70.

Import source: Pakistan

Released: 1969-71

Release details: In 1969-70, most Diglyphus spp. were released near Nelson, 350 were released near Hamilton. In 1970-71 releases were made near Ashburton, Mid-Canterbury (9,113) and Lincoln, Canterbury (768)

Establishment: Appears to have established in New Zealand before it's deliberate introduction.

Impacts on non-targets: D. isaea has invaded subalpine habitats in the South Island and has been recorded parasitising a native leafminer Liriomyza sp. on hebe.

References

Cameron PJ, Hill RL, Bain J, Thomas WP (1989). A Review of Biological Control of Invertebrate Pests and Weeds in New Zealand 1874-1987. Technical Communication No 10. CAB International Institute of Biological Control. DSIR Entomology Division. 424p.

Munro, V.M.W. and Henderson, I.M. (2002). Nontarget effect of entomophagous biocontrol: Shared parasitism between native lepidopteran parasitoids and the biocontrol agent Trigonospila brevifacies (Diptera: Tachinidae) in forest habitats. Environmental Entomology 31 (2). 388-396