Development and behavior of Cerceris fumipennis

Several state and federal projects are now assessing and utilizing the C. fumipennis biosurveillance technique for monitoring the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) and other exotic Buprestid beetles. Unfortunately, the use of C. fumipennis for biosurveillance is currently limited to areas where the wasp is naturally occurring. These areas have highly impacted sandy soils, are scattered, and may not be located in areas that are likely Buprestid infestation sites. This study is aimed at understanding the in ground phenology and survival of the wasp, which will provide the groundwork for moving forward in the development of mobile colonies which would significantly increase the use of C. fumipennis as a tool to locate EAB and other exotic Buprestid beetles. The research presented builds on previous work that established better predictions of C. fumipennis activity. We monitored the in ground development of C. fumipennis and above ground behavior relative to temperature during the 2012 and 2013 summer field season.