Parasitism potential of Aenasius advena Compere (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) on Ferrisia virgata (Cockerell) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae)

Abstract

The relative suitability of different immature life stages of Ferrisia virgata (Cockerell) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) as a host for the development of the parasitoid, Aenasius advena Compere (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) was investigated. Maximum parasitism (42.50%) under laboratory conditions was observed in the pre reproductive stage of host. The results of this study revealed that host life stage in which parasitoid larva complete its final instar is significant for its development. Parasitism of third instar and pre reproductive F. virgata yielded more number of males and females respectively. Considering the efficiency of parasitism, third instar and pre reproductive stage of F. virgata is the most suitable stage for mass rearing A. advena in the laboratory. Biological control is the best management strategy to control F. virgata since it helps reducing pesticide usage. Biological information gathered in this study is important to the development biological control programme of F. virgata.