Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Sirex noctilio (Hymenoptera: Siricidae), sirex wood wasp

Agent introduced: Rhyssa persuasoria himalayensis (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae)

Imported:

1963, 1964

Import source:

India 1963 and 1964, Pakistan 1963

Released:

1964

Release details:

Cameron et al. (1989) - 44 wasps from India were liberated at Waipoua (Northland) in 1964. All other importations were released into an insectary at Nelson. By 1970 specimens from the insectary had been released at Russell (Northland), Ashley (North Canterrbury), Herbert (North Otago) and Naseby (Central Otago).

Establishment:

Cameron et al. (1989) - not recovered but may have inter-bred with Rhyssa persuasoria persuasoria and is no longer recognised.

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.