Introduction of a new parasitoid Binodoxys communis, for improved aphid control in Hawaii

The aphid parasitoid, Binodoxys communis (Hymenoptera: Braconidae:Aphidiinae) was recently introduced into Hawaii to help improve the control of aphids. The main target aphid species is the melon aphid, Aphis gossypii Glover that causes direct feeding damage to plants and vectors more than 100 viral diseases of Hawaii's economically important agricultural commodities such as taro, cucumber and papaya. In order to evaluate the establishment of this new parasitoid species in the field, a series of sampling from three field sites planted with taro, Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott in the island of Kauai was conducted before and after the release of B. communis. This study also aims to determine if the introduction of this new parasitoid will cause corresponding changes on the aphid population, levels of primary and secondary parasitism and the abundance of the extant parasitoid species. The explanations and implications of these preliminary results will be discussed in the context of biological control.