ZLV Online

Abstract

The gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) is an important lepidopteran pest of deciduous stands in Central Europe. Its natural enemies include more than 150 species of parasitoids that are taxonomically classified primarily into two orders of insects: Hymenoptera and Diptera. All of the gypsy moth’s developmental stages can be infested. Between 10% and 100% of individuals in a population are parasitized. Rate of parasitism is evaluated for each stage separately and, in order to obtain a comprehensive idea of the species spectrum of parasitoids, regular weekly collections under natural conditions must be performed. Eggs and larvae are stored in the laboratory and parasitoids must be regularly collected and determined. Only 3 species of egg parasitoids are known under the conditions in Central Europe. There are 4 predominant species in larvae: Cotesia melanoscela, Glyptapanteles liparidis (Braconidae); Parasetigena silvestris, and Blepharipa pratensis (Tachinidae). The species most frequently occurring in pupa is Brachymeria intermedia (Chalcididae). The effectiveness of known parasitoids should neither be overestimated nor compared to the effectiveness of other antagonists. Under extremely favourable conditions, they cannot prevent an outbreak of gypsy moth but can only decrease its abundance and prevent the pest from obtaining a permanently high population density.