Meteorus pulchricornis (Wesmael) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Euphorinae): An exotic polyphagous parasitoid in New Zealand

Abstract

New lepidopteran hosts are recorded for the accidentally introduced polyphagous parasitoid Meteorus pulchricornis (Wesmael) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Euphorinae). Twenty‐one host species (7 endemic, 13 exotic, and 1 undetermined) from eight lepidopteran families are known from New Zealand. Information is presented showing the impact of M. pulchricornis on Helicoverpa armigera and its associated parasitoids. The known parasitoid webs of other host species are detailed, and common elements are identified in order to indicate existing parasitoid species that may be affected by this exotic addition to the New Zealand fauna. © The Royal Society of New Zealand 2004.