Parasitoid complex of the Gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) in the increase-phase populations in Korea

Abstract

The species composition of the parasitoid complex and the degree of parasitism by each species were analyzed for gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) populations in the increasing phase. Total of 7,826 mid-late instar larvae and pupae were collected and reared from two collection sites in Gangwon Province, Korea. Two tachinid flies (Blepharipa schineri and Parasetigena silvestris), and the ichneumonid wasp (Coccygomimus disparis) were the most abundant parasitoids, in the order of decreasing importance. Other parasitoids occurring included Coteisa melanoscelus, Cotesia scheaferi, Glyptapanteles liparidis, Brachymeria lasus, and Exorista spp. The low incidence of the NPVirus is hypothesized to be an important factor in determining degree of parasitism rate by P. silvestris and B. schineri, and their relative dominance in the parasitoid complex.