Case Study: the Application of Trichogramma Evanescens Westwood (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) as a Novel Integrated Pest Management Solution against Webbing Clothes Moth Tineola Bisselliella Hummel (Lepidoptera: Tineidae) at Burghley House, Stamford, UK

Abstract

An on-going webbing clothes moth Tineola bisselliella (WCM) infestation at Burghley House (Burghley) in Stamford, UK was targeted using a novel integrated pest management (IPM) biological control method, the application of parasitoid wasp Trichogramma evanescens (TE). Although widely used in agriculture and stored product protection, previous heritage application of the parasitoid wasp is limited, even more so within the parameters of a historic house context. The short trial presented was designed to assess the feasibility of parasitoid application as an alternative method of IPM within an historic house. The trial was also intended to determine whether parasitoids could be effectively applied by conservators independent of a pest control company. Knowledge of WCM and TE biology and behaviour was a prerequisite for successfully conducting this biological trial. Results suggest that parasitoid wasp TE may be effective within an historic house as a novel form of IPM against WCM, however no firm conclusions are drawn due to the trial's length of only three months. It is suggested a trial of minimum one-year duration, covering multiple WCM breeding cycles, is required to determine wasp efficacy against WCM infestation. However, it is concluded that this trial successfully demonstrates that parasitoid wasps can be applied as a form of IPM by conservators within the heritage sector independent of pest control/ biological control companies, and that parasitoid wasp application offers a viable method of IPM within an historic house.