Update on biological control of emerald ash borer with two parasitoids from China

In 2007, we received permits and initiated release in Michigan of two parasitoids of emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), from China. In the past, we reported on the impact of these two parasitoids on EAB populations infesting green ash trees, Fraxinus pennsylvanica, planted in a reforested area in Jilin province, China. These parasitoids are Oobius agrili (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), a parthenogenic solitary egg parasitoid, and Tetrastichus planipennisi (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), a gregarious larval endoparasitoid. In 2008, releases of these parasitoids continued in Michigan and new releases were completed at sites in Ohio and Indiana. We will report on these parasitoid releases, efforts and plans to evaluate establishment and efficacy of these parasitoids, and future plans for an EAB biocontrol program in the U.S.