Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Epiphyas postvittana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), light brown apple moth

Agent introduced: Brachymeria teuta (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) = Brachymeria rubripes

Imported: 1967, 1969

Import source: Australia

Import notes:

Cameron et al. (1989) - parasitised E. postvittana pupae were collected in eastern Australia and Tasmania in 1967 and 1969 and imported into quarantine at Nelson. Two hundred and forty-one B. teuta emerged in 1967, of which 200 were directly released; 52 emerged in 1969, of which 40 were directly released. It was cultured successfully and reared individuals were also released.

Released:

1967

Release details:

Cameron et al. (1989) - in 1967, 200 adults were released into field cages at Nelson and Appleby, near Nelson. In 1969, 40 adults were released into field cages at Appleby. Releases were also made at Christchurch, Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga.

Establishment:

Cameron et al. (1989) - established at Nelson during 1968-73 but has not been recorded from field collections since 1975. There was one unconfirmed report of B. teuta from north of Auckland in 1972, but no confirmation of establishment in any district has been made.

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.