Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Agrotis ipsilon (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), greasy cutworm

Agent introduced: Periscepsia carbonaria (Diptera: Tachinidae)

Imported:

1970-71, 1985

Import source:

Pakistan

Import notes:

Cameron et al. (1989) - Periscepsia carbonaria was imported from Pakistan in 1970-71 as part of a programme to introduce A. ipsilon parasitoids into New Zealand. As it was unable to be released from this importation, a re-importation was made in 1985. A sex ratio imbalance resulting from poor emergence out of the 1985 material caused the laboratory cultures to fail after two generations. Further importations of A. ipsilon parasitoids from Pakistan were made in 1986 but did not include P. carbonaria as field infestations in that country were low.

Release details:

Cameron et al. (1989) - not released.

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.