Biological control in pest management systems of plants

Chalcidoidea are economically and ecologically the most important parasites of agricultural insects. Some of the parasitoids that we are focusing on in our laboratory (Encarsia, Aphytis, Aphelinus) are among the most important control agents of whiteflies, aphids and armored scale insects in California. Most species are minute and difficult to identify. We continue to provide resources (identification keys, revisions, on-line [electronic] catalogs, etc.) that can be used by researchers, extension personnel, and the public in general. We are working with local extension specialists to identify parasitoids and are collaborating with active research projects (i.e. citrus leafminer parasites for Beth Grafton-Cardwell). Student projects are directly involved with major pest programs in California (i.e. species of Orasema attacking fire ants, species of Zagrammosoma attacking leafminers). Our work on molecular systematics is helping to identify cryptic species of wasps that will be relevant for biological control, and in the process providing new means of species identification.