Longevity and Fecundity of Edovum puttleri Grissell, with Notes on Its Effectiveness as a Biocontrol Agent in Tennessee

Author

Nader M. Elkassabany, University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Date of Award

3-1987

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Entomology and Plant Pathology

Major Professor

Paris L. Lambdin

Committee Members

Reid R. Gerhardt, Charles D. Pless

Abstract

In the laboratory, fecundity and longevity of Edovum puttleri Grissell (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) were determined. Longevity was tested at two temperatures and with three different diets. The tested groups were mated females, virgin females, and males. Mean longevity was 17.9 ± 2.2 days, and parasite survival rate was highest under a combination of 24±1^oC and 50% water: 50% honey diet. Mean fecundity for each female was 1.9±0.2 eggs/24 hr and 40.8±4.8 eggs in 21 days. In the summer of 1986, field releases were made in Knoxville and Crossville to determine the effectiveness of the parasite as a biocontrol agent. Counts of Leptinotarsa decemlineata(Say), Colorado potato beetle (CPB) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), percent parasitized eggs and potato yields were the factors used to determine the effectiveness of the field treatments. At the rate of 12 female parasites/1 female CPB, there was no significant difference between the mass release treatment and the control. The parasite did not suppress the population of the CPB, while applying Ambush 112.5 g ai/ ha as a chemical treatment was effective.

Recommended Citation

Elkassabany, Nader M., "Longevity and Fecundity of Edovum puttleri Grissell, with Notes on Its Effectiveness as a Biocontrol Agent in Tennessee. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1987.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/4419