Biological control of Callosobruchus maculatus using the parasitoid wasp Dinarmus basalis: Effects of host fitness

Abstract: Food safety is being challenged nowadays as a global concern. Thus, stored-product pest management strategies tend to emphasize the non-chemical aspects of pest control. Consequently, biological control with the use of parasitoids as natural enemies represents a good alternative. Unfortunately, for the correct implementation and success of this sustainable approach, higher management knowledge is required. In this context, the performance of parasitoids is directly related to the quality of the host.For this reason, our work investigated the relationship between Dinarmus basalis performances and the fitness of Callosobruchus maculatus forth larvae. Fitness was measured as the size and weight of C. maculatus forth larvae; while, longevity, parasitism rate, sex ratio and Mean Growth Rate were reported as D. basalis performances. Four Regression Equation Models were used.Results showed high positive correlation between D. basalis performances and larvae weight of the host C. maculatus. Heavy host bodies induced high parasitism rates and sex ratio shifted in favor of females. Moreover, D. basalis adults reread on heavy host bodies have a longer life span. Moreover, results showed that being small hosts does not prevent D. basalis to achieve acceptable performances. This work demonstrated the ability of D. basalis to control and limit C. maculatus populations with a parasitism rate reaching 86%.