A modelling analysis of the successful biological control of Sitona discoideus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) by Microctonus aethiopoides (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) in New Zealand.

Published online
02 May 1996
Content type
Journal article
Journal title
Journal of Applied Ecology
DOI
10.2307/2404280

Author(s)
Barlow, N. D. & Goldson, S. L.

Publication language
English
Location
New Zealand

Abstract

Simple models were developed to explore the interaction between the curculionid lucerne (Medicago sativa) pest Sitona discoideus and its introduced braconid parasitoid Microctonus aethiopoides in New Zealand. A model for the population dynamics of S. discoideus demonstrated that observed levels of parasitism account for a decline in pest abundance, in spite of strong density-dependent mortality in the host. An empirical model for changes in parasitism from year to year, spanning 5-6 parasitoid generations each year, suggested that control is likely to be maintained in the long term and that the interaction is stable. Tentative values were established for the average searching efficiency of M. aethiopoides (approximately 0.25 m2/parasitoid per generation) and for parameters governing pseudo-interference and a functional response to host density, based on analysis of discrete parasitoid generations. Based on experimental data and field temperatures, a simulation model of daily parasitoid behaviour over summer, when generations overlap, supported the hypothesis that atypically developing parasitoids are those oviposited in newly emerged adult weevils. The model accounted for the observed atypical summer build-up of parasitism which is essential for the success of biological control. The models suggested that biological control of S. discoideus is complementary to other forms of control, including other biological control agents, because subsequent levels of parasitism appear little affected by changes in pest density. It is argued that quantitative analysis of specific biological control case studies, both successful and unsuccessful, is a vital prerequisite for improvements in general biocontrol theory and practice.

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