Biocontrol introduction
Target pest: Costelytra zealandica (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), grass grub
Agent introduced: Thynnoides rufithorax (Hymenoptera: Tiphiidae) = T. gracilis and T. laeviceps (Smith)
Imported: 1947-51
Import source: Victoria, Australia
Release details: 1,416 released
Establishment: Two cocoons recovered from Odontria smithi Broun or O. striata White at Ashburton in 1949 and two more in 1950.
Impacts on target: Not considered to have established.
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.