NE1032: Biological Control of Arthropod Pests and Weeds

(Multistate Research Project)

Status: Inactive/Terminating

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SAES-422 Reports

Annual/Termination Reports:

[01/14/2009] [10/05/2010] [03/12/2012] [06/17/2013]

Date of Annual Report: 01/14/2009

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 01/15/2009 - 01/15/2009
Period the Report Covers: 02/01/2008 - 09/01/2008

Participants

NE1032 Meeting Participants
Judy Hough-Goldstein, Univ. Delaware; Roger Fuester,BIRL, DE; Mary Ellen Dix, USDA FS WO Rosslyn, VA; Fritzi Grevstad, Univ. of Washington; Mark Whitmore, Cornell Univ.; David Mausel, Univ. of Mass.; Kelli Hoover, Penn State Univ.;
Scott Salom, Va. Tech.; Joe Elkinton, Univ. of Mass.; Phyllis Martin, USDA/ARS;
Lisa Tewksbury, Univ. of R.I.; George Hamilton, Rutgers Univ.; Ruth Plymale, Cornell Univ.; Juli Gould, USDA APHIS, MA; Carolyn Klass, Cornell Univ.;
Tom McAvoy, Va. Tech.; Ellie Groden, Univ. of Maine; Jim Lashomb, Rutgers Univ.;
Ann Hajek, Cornell Univ.; Richard McDonald, Symbiont Biol. Pest. Mgmt.; Melody Keena, USFS NRS, Hamden, CT; Leah Bauer, USFS NRS, East Lansing, MI; Holly Menninger, Cornell Univ.; Bob Nowierski, USDA CSREES, Wash. DC; Richard Casagrande, Univ. of R.I.

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

Attachment

Accomplishments

Accomplishments During 2008 Goal 1 (Conservation of existing natural enemies) Objective 1. To conserve natural enemies. Blueberry production. Eight species of harvestmen (Opiliones) representing five genera, four subfamilies, and two families of harvestmen were found inhabiting Maine blueberry fields. The harvestmen community is dominated by Phalangium opilio. Pruned fields have higher relative abundance than fruit-bearing fields and organic fields also have more harvestmen than conventionally managed fields. Insecticide trials showed that phosmet and esfenvalerate are detrimental to P. opilio adults but spinosad showed no negative effects. (Reported by Frank Drummond.) Bt Toxins. Research focused on assessing the risk to non-target organisms from toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis relative to risks posed by conventional insecticides using Bt expressing plants as well as purified and formulated Bt products. It was demonstrated that a Bt protein, expressed in a plant, did not harm a parasitoid within a caterpillar that fed on a Bt plant, as compared to a parasitoid within a caterpillar that fed on a conventional or organic insecticide. (Reported by Tony Shelton) Objective 2. To determine the distribution and impact of Cotesia rubecula. A Chinese strain of Cotesia rubecula released in 1988 has become the dominant parasitoid of the imported cabbageworm, Pieris rapae, in central and western Massachusetts, averaging 75% parasitism. It has displaced C. glomerata which is now present only at trace levels. Cotesia rubecula also predominates in NY, but both Cotesia species remain common in RI (Reported by Roy Van Driesche.) Objective 3. To examine the effects of exotic plants on ecosystem function. We found a trend for increased abundance of herbivore and natural enemy insect families in urban landscapes of native plants relative to landscapes of alien plants. However, no difference was found in predation of herbivores, natural enemy abundance, or plant damage between native and alien treatments. Therefore, no definitive recommendation on the use of natives over alien plants can be made yet. (Reported by Mike Raupp and Paula Shrewsbury) Goal 2 (Augmentation programs) Objective 4. To release and evaluate augmentative biological control agents and educate the public about their role in pest management. Mexican Bean Beetle. In 2008 a total of 388,000 Pediobius foveolatus adults were released into nurse plots and soybean, snap bean, and lima bean fields throughout central and southern New Jersey against the Mexican bean beetle, Epilachna varivestis. As a result of these continuing releases, E. varivestis populations are roughly 12-13% of what they were in the 1980s and no grower in NJ has had to treat for Mexican bean beetle since 1987. (Reported by the NJ Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insects Laboratory.) Trichogramma ostriniae. This parasitoid of the European corn borer (ECB), Ostrinia nubilalis, does not overwinter in New York; however it is a candidate for augmentative biological control. In 2008 T. ostriniae was very economical compared to doing nothing to control ECB. When integrated with insecticides, farm profits were improved in two of the past three years. Releases of T. ostriniae in commercial fields of snap beans resulted in substantial parasitism of European corn borer sentinel eggs indicating that this parasitoid holds potential in this non-corn system. Periodic warming of immature T. ostriniae in cold storage can increase overall shelf life (survival). (Reported by Mike Hoffmann) Goal 3 (Classical Biological Control) Objective 5. To develop a biological control program for exotic Phragmites australis. A Proposed Plant List for Host Specificity Testing of Potential Biological Control Agents of Introduced Phragmites australis Haplotypes was prepared by Cornell and URI scientists and submitted to the USDA for TAG approval in January, 2009. This list includes proposed biological control agents: Arenostola phragmitidis, Archanara neurica, Archanara dissoluta, and Archanara geminipuncta (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Host specificity testing is underway at URI and CABI Europe Switzerland. (Reported by Bernd Blossey and Richard Casagrande.) Objective 6. To develop a biological control program for swallow-worts in North America. Two swallow-worts (Vincetoxicum nigrum and V. rossicum), originating from Europe, have become important weeds in the eastern United States and Canada. In 2006, we collected five insect species on swallow-worts in Central and Eastern Europe. From two seasons of host specificity studies it appears that the leaf-feeding larvae of the noctuids Abrostola asclepiadis and Hypena opulenta are specific to Vincetoxicum, while the larvae of chrysomelids Chrysolina a. asclepiadis (leaf-feeder) and Eumolpus asclepiadeus (root-feeder) can develop on additional plant genera. We also confirmed acceptance and development of the seed predator Euphranta connexa on the target weeds. In 2008, we initiated impact studies with A. asclepiadis, E. asclepiadeus, and H. opulenta. (Reported by Aaron Weed and R.A. Casgrande.) Objective 7. To establish and evaluate herbivores released against mile-a-minute weed. Mile-a-minute weed, Persicaria perfoliata (L.) H. Gross, an invasive annual vine of Asian origin, has developed extensive monocultures, throughout the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. A host-specific Asian weevil, Rhinoncomimus latipes Korotyaev, was released and established in three sites in southeastern Pennsylvania in 2005. The weevil produces at least three field generations per year. Weevil feeding delays and suppresses seed production, and can cause plant mortality in the presence of competing plants. Since 2004 the NJ Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insects Laboratory has reared more than 137,000 weevils which were released, in NJ, DE, MD, PA, and WV. The beetles established populations at 54 of 56 release sites. Monitored release sites in PA, DE, and NJ showed large increases in weevil populations and reductions in mile-a-minute weed populations. (Reported by Judith Hough-Goldstein.) Objective 8. To develop an effective biological control program for the emerald ash borer. Emerald ash borer, native to the Far East, was found in Michigan in 2002 and has already spread into 10 states and Canada. Three parasitoids were approved by USDA for environmental release in 2007. Tetrastichus planipennisi was released in MI in 2007. It was not confirmed to be established in 2008 and it was released at additional sites. Oobius agrili was released in two sites in MI in 2007. Establishment was confirmed at both sites in 2008 and the parasitoid was also released in Ohio. Spathius agrili was also released in MI in 2007 and establishment was confirmed in 2008. (Reported by Leah Bauer.) Objective 9. To establish and evaluate natural enemies of the hemlock woolly adelgid and other hemlock pests. Since 1998, a total of 288,675 Sasajiscymnus tsugae have been released into 64 New Jersey hemlock sites. Overwintering recoveries of S. tsugae have been made at 12 sites since 1999 including one in 2008 in Colts Neck, NJ. Overwintering Laricobius nigrinus beetles were recovered from three of four pre-2007 release sites in October; one recovery was from the 2005 release site in Worthington State Forest which is three consecutive years of recovery for that site. A total of 2,033 L. nigrinus were released in New Jersey in 2008. No Scymnus sinuanodulus were recovered in 2008. (Reported by N.J. Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory.) Beginning in fall 2007, a total of 1,577 Laricobius nigrinus from the inland northwestern United States (i.e. Idaho, Montana, northeastern Washington) have been released at 11 sites in Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire. Paired with each inland L. nigrinus release site are 11 control sites and 11 releases of L. nigrinus from the coastal northwest (i.e. Seattle, WA), adding another 1,550 adults released. Sampling for L. nigrinus establishment will begin in May 2009. A system of permanent plots has been set up in each release and control site where baseline tree health, tree mortality, and vegetation data are currently being collected. (Reported by Dave Mausel, U.Mass.) Cybocephalus nipponicus on Elongate Hemlock Scale. From 2000 to 2008, 339,050 Cybocephalus nipponicus (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) were released into elongate hemlock scale-infested hemlock sites throughout NJ. In 2008 C. nipponicus was recovered at 58.5% of the hemlock sites surveyed compared to 20% of the sites surveyed in 2006. This predator is expanding its range and increasing its population throughout NJ hemlock stands. (Reported by the NJ Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insects Laboratory.) Objective 10. To establish and evaluate natural enemies of the winter moth. The winter moth, Operophtera brumata, a leaf-feeding geometrid native to Europe, has recently invaded eastern New England and is causing widespread defoliation. Over the past four years we have introduced Cyzenis albicans at six locations in Massachusetts and in 2007 we recovered the first parasitized larvae at our release site in Falmouth MA. A pheromone trap survey initiated in 2005 has to date, recovered winter moths from eastern Long Island, southeastern Connecticut, all of Rhode Island, eastern Massachusetts, coastal New Hampshire, and southern coastal Maine. The survey shows that winter moth occurs in Nova Scotia but not interior areas of Maine or New Brunswick. Winter temperatures may prevent winter moth from invading these regions. (Reported by Joseph Elkinton.) Objective 11. To distribute and evaluate Peristenus relictus, a parasitoid of the tarnished plant bug. In a cooperative project with USDA and university scientists, the NJ Philip Alampe Biological Control Laboratory reared and released 51,000 Peristenus relictus NJ during 2008. No overwintering recoveries of P. relictus were made although there was one same- season recovery. Of interest, 14 Peristenus digoneutis were recovered from the release sites in South Jersey which is the largest number of this species of parasitoid ever recovered that far south. It took some years before P. digoneutis was recovered in any quantity in North Jersey so it is expected that recovery of P. relictus would follow that same pattern. One overwintering recovery of P. relictus was made in 2006. (Reported by N.J. Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory.) Objective 12. To establish and evaluate biological control agents for garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), a biennial herb of European origin, invades forest communities in the United States and southeastern Canada. Through research centered at CABI Europe- Switzerland, four insect species have been prioritized as potential biocontrol agents including: the stem-mining weevils Ceutorhynchus alliariae and C. roberti, the seed-feeding weevil C. constrictus and the root-crown mining weevil C. scrobicollis. A petition for field release for C. scrobicollis was submitted to TAG (USDA-APHIS Technical Advisory Group) in 2008 while host specificity trials continue with the other species. (Reported by Esther Gerber and Hariet L. Hinz CABI Europe Switzerland.) Objective 13. To investigate potential new biological control projects for the northeast. Tree of Heaven. The tree of heaven (TOH), Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, native to Asia, is an invasive tree distributed throughout most of the continental U.S. Two weevil herbivores from China are under investigation as potential biological control agents: Euchryptorrhynchus brandti (Harold) and E. chinensis (Olivier). Both species are considered tree killers and major pests of TOH in China and neither is known to feed on other plants in their native habitat. E. brandti, is nearing completion of host-range testing in quarantine at Virginia Tech which may petition USDA APHIS for release of this insect in 2010. Field work in 2008 indicates that in China, these herbivores may only complete development in stressed trees. Hence, new research is investigating the potential of these herbivores to transmit the pathogen Verticillium albo-atrum which is capable of killing TOH in the field in North America. (Reported by Scott Salom.) Asian Longhorned Beetle. The Hatch project entitled Biological Control of the Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB): Drawing from Indigenous Sources (VT-H01209) was initiated by UVM scientists and linked to multi-state project NE 1032. Study plots were established in a sugar maple site to evaluate methods of attracting native longhorned beetles. Studies conducted in Delaware show that our method of felling multiple trees in one location netted more longhorned beetles than felling individual trees. This research will provide valuable insights into how best to attract maple-feeding longhorned beetles to allow the study of their native natural enemies. (Reported by Bruce Parker.) Lily Leaf Beetle. Two parasitoids of the lily leaf beetle, Lilioceris lilii, are well established in New England. Tetrastichus setifer is established in four states (RI, MA, NH, ME). It has dispersed at least 12 miles near Boston, MA and 8 miles in Cumberland, RI and beetle populations are suppressed near release sites. Lemophagus errabundus is also established in two states (RI, MA) and it has spread over a mile from a release site. (Reported by Lisa Tewksbury and Richard Casagrande.) Purple Loosestrife. The NJ Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insects Laboratory continues to provide Galerucella spp. beetles for New Jersey other states. Due to widespread beetle dispersal and establishment, only 36,500 beetles were released in seven sites within NJ on either state or private lands in 2008. Since the inception of this program in 1997, 1,718,202 beetles have been released at 102 sites in 17 of the 21 counties throughout NJ. The beetles have established at 98% of the sites. The overall percent coverage of loosestrife, flowering, and seed production have all declined substantially at the three original release sites where data collection is ongoing. The beetles have been recovered over 30 miles from the closest release site. Biological Control of Knotweeds. Knotweeds are a complex of closely related plants in the genus Fallopia (family Polygonaceae). Introduced into North America from Japan, these large herbaceous perennials form dense thickets that crowd out native plants, impede recreation, increase erosion, and reduce the quality of habitat for wildlife. Two Japanese insects, a sap-feeding psyllid, Aphalara itadori, and a leaf and stem-feeding moth, Ostrinia ovalipennis, are undergoing host specificity testing at Oregon State University and a southern strain of the psyllid is being tested by CABI-Bioscience in the UK. Cooperators in the Northeast USA are providing Fallopia and other test plants. Testing of the psyllid is near completion with promising results. These results will be submitted for TAG review by for a possible release in 2010. Testing of the moth will take at least two more years. (Reported by Fritzi Grevstad.) Goal 4 (Evaluation and Education) Objective 14. To distribute information on the successful biological control of the birch leafminer throughout the northeastern states. On January 14, 2009 Roger Fuester gave a presentation entitled Birch Leafminer: A Success. at the USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species in Annapolis, MD to an audience of 297. He reported that the birch leafminer has declined dramatically to barely detectable levels in five states (MA, CT, RI, NY, PA) but the pest remains fairly abundant (up to 50% leaves mined) in Delaware and southern NJ. Survey results, in context with previous evaluations made when populations were still declining, show that Lathrolestes nigricollis has completely suppressed this pest in much of the northeastern USA, but that there is a limit to efficacy along the pests southern distribution. Survey results illustrate the importance of continued monitoring of a classical biological control project for an extended period, in this case 34 years since the first releases. Evaluations on short time scales (3-6 years), typical of many research projects, may be premature and underestimate ultimate impacts of new biocontrol agents, especially when monitoring is done over very wide geographic areas. (Reported by Roger Fuester.) Objective 15. To provide web-based information for growers, landscape managers, educators, and students on biological control programs. The University of Maryland produces an electronic newsletter throughout the growing season to provide timely information on pest identification and management tactics particularly emphasizing biological controls. This collaborative project involves Extension personnel and Master Gardeners, landscapers, nursery producers, and government agency staff. The newsletter is emailed to over 1,400 stakeholders weekly. Bug of the Week is a web site that explores the lives of insects found primarily in and around homes in suburban Maryland with the goal of introducing adults and children to the wonders of biology using examples from the insect world. Since May, 2005, more than 180 episodes have been produced. The site gets 6,000 to 18,000 visits per week and is used by educators, members of the green industry, and private citizens in this country and abroad. Bug of the Week can be found at http://www.entm.umd.edu/. In addition to the Bug of the Week web site, outreach efforts through television and radio have helped educated consumers on the ecology and management including biological control of insects in and around homes. More than a million viewers received information during interviews with CBS, ABC, NBC, FOX, Weather Channel, Tyra Banks, and NPR. The Cornell web site on Natural Enemies in North America continues to be a premier source of information on biological control to the general public. Objective 16. To publish the results of biological control research in refereed journals, books, and proceedings. See Publication List

Publications

Publications Attachment:

Attachment

Impact Statements

It was demonstrated that a Bt protein, expressed in a plant, did not harm a parasitoid when within a caterpillar that fed on a Bt plant, as compared to a parasitoid within a caterpillar that fed on a conventional or organic insecticide. This shows that a Bt plant can conserve natural enemies better than conventional synthetic insecticides or an organic insecticide, spinosad. (Reported by Tony Shelton)
The widespread regional increases in parasitism by the introduced braconid Cotesia rubecula has resulted in earlier host mortality and less feeding damage by Pieris rapae. (Reported by Roy Van Driesche)
Mexican bean beetle populations declined over the past quarter century as a direct result of the biocontrol program with Pediobus foveolatus and no grower in NJ has had to treat for Mexican bean beetle since 1987. (Reported by the NJ Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insects Laboratory.)
Overwintering Laricobius nigrinus (a predator of hemlock woolly adelgid) were recovered from three of four pre-2007 release sites in October 2008; one recovery was from the 2005 release site in Worthington SF which is the third consecutive year of recovery for that site. (Reported by N.J. Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory.)
When releases of T. ostriniae were integrated with insecticides directed at European corn borer, farm profits were improved in two of the past three years. (Reported by Mike Hoffmann.)
Monitored release sites in PA, DE, and NJ showed large increases in populations of the weevil Rhinoncomimus latipes and reductions in mile-a-minute weed populations. (Reported by Judith Hough-Goldstein.)
In 2008 Cybocephalus nipponicus, a predator on elongate hemlock scale, was recovered at 58.5% of the hemlock sites surveyed compared to 20% of the sites surveyed in 2006. This predator is expanding its range and increasing its population throughout NJ hemlock stands. (Reported by N.J. Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory.)
Over the past four years we have introduced Cyzenis albicans at six locations in Massachusetts and in 2007 we recovered the first parasitized larvae of winter moth at our release site in Falmouth MA. (Reported by Joe Elkinton.)
A petition for field release for C. scrobicollis against garlic mustard was submitted to TAG (USDA-APHIS Technical Advisory Group) in 2008 while host specificity trials continue with the other species. (Reported by Esther Gerber and Hariet L. Hinz CABI Europe Switzerland.)
Research results led to a reevaluation of scientific methods used by USDA ARS scientists to investigate native natural enemies of ALB. Now that a large infestation of ALB has been detected in Massachusetts, researchers will be able to use these established methods where ALB occurs. (Reported by Bruce Parker.)
Two parasitoids of the lily leaf beetle, Lilioceris lilii, are well established in New England. Tetrastichus setifer is established in four states (RI, MA, NH, ME). It has dispersed at least 12 miles near Boston, MA and 8 miles in Cumberland, RI and beetle populations are suppressed near release sites. (Reported by Lisa Tewksbury.)
Since 1997, 1,718,202 Galerucella spp. beetles have been released against purple loosestrife at 102 sites in 17 of the 21 NJ counties with establishment at 98% of the sites. The coverage of loosestrife as well as flower and seed production have all declined substantially at the three original release sites and beetles have been recovered over 30 miles from the closest release site.
The birch leafminer has declined dramatically to barely detectable levels in five states (MA, CT, RI, NY, PA) but the pest remains fairly abundant (up to 50% leaves mined) in Delaware and southern NJ. Survey results, in context with previous evaluations made when populations were still declining, show that decline is due to the release of Lathrolestes nigricollis 34 years ago. (Reported by Roger Fuester.)

Date of Annual Report: 10/05/2010

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 10/01/2010 - 10/05/2010
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2009 - 09/01/2010

Participants

Abell, Kristopher, PSIS, UMASS, Amherst, MA;
Biazzo, Jeromy, USDA-ARS, RW Holley Center, Ithaca, NY;
Blossey, Bernd, Department of Natural Resources, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY;
Boettner, Cynthia, Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, Sunderland, MA;
Boettner, Jeff, PSIS, UMASS, Amherst, MA;
Casagrande, Richard, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Rhode Island;
Chew, Francie, Biology Dept., Tufts University;
Echandi, Alexandra, MA Dept of Conservation and Recreation;
Elkinton, Joe, PSIS, UMASS, Amherst, MA;
Fuester, Roger, USDA ARS Beneficial Insects Research Lab;
Gardner, Jeffrey, Cornell Univ, Ag. Exp. Stn., Ithaca, NY;
Gould, Juli, USDA-APHIS-PPQ, Buzzards Bay, MA;
Groden, Eleanor, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maine;
Hajek, Ann, Department of Entomology, Ithaca, NY;
Havill, Nathan, USDA Forest Service, Hamden, CT;
Herlihy, Megan, PSIS, UMASS, Amherst, MA;
Legrand, Ana, Univ. of CT IPM program, Storrs, CT;
Milbrath, Lindsey, USDA-ARS, RW Holley Center, Ithaca, NY;
Moran, Patrick, USDA-ARS, Beneficial Insects Research Unit, Weslaco, Texas;
Nowierski, USDA-NIFA, Wash. DC;
Sing, Sharlene, USFS, Rocky Mountain Research Station;
Soper, Anna, PSIS, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA;
Tewksbury, Elizabeth, Department of Plant Science, University of Rhode Island;
Van Driesche, Roy, PSIS, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA;
Vandenberg, John, USDA ARS, Ithaca, NY;
Weed, Aaron, Department of Entomology, University of Idaho

Brief Summary of Minutes

All in attendance were asked to introduce themselves and very briefly present any new results of their programs that they felt would be of general interest to the group. About half presented some results and these are included under accomplishments (below).

The group decided to hold its next meeting in conjunction with the US Forest Services annual Invasive Species meeting in Annapolis in January of 2012. (We have already cleared this with the 2012 program organizers.)

The group decided to retain Richard Casagrande as chair for another year.

Robert Nowierski, in his capacity as NE1032 NIFA representative, provided some updates and insights from Washington DC.

Accomplishments

Goal 1 (Conservation of existing natural enemies) Objective 1. To conserve natural enemies. A long-term (10 year) time series of blueberry maggot fly population abundance and the abundance of its primary native braconid parasitoid (Utetes richmondi (Gahan)) were analyzed to determine if this parasitoid regulates population fluctuations of this pest. A significant relationship was found between the intrinsic rate of growth of the blueberry fly in preceeding and subsequent years (1 year time lag) suggesting density dependence. Linear and non-linear time series did not suggest that this parasitoid was responsible for regulation, although a 10 year time-series is not a long enough time frame to provide adequate power for this type of statistical modeling. Several more years of data collection are anticipated to determine if this parasitoid affects the long-term population dynamics of blueberry fly. (Frank Drummond, U. Maine.) Objective 2. To determine the distribution and impact of Cotesia rubecula. In fall 2009, a survey of parasitoids attacking Pieris rapae on vegetable farms in MA was done to determine if the displacement of Cotesia glomerata by Cotesia rubecula, as seen in 2007 in a spring survey would also be the case in the fall. We hypothesized that C. glomerata might become relatively more abundant by the end of the growing season. For 21 sites (19 in MA, 1 in RI and 1 in VT), parasitism of P. rapae averaged 75% in the September-October, 2009 compared to 70% for 20 sites in MA in June 2007. Cotesia rubecula accounted for 87.4% of all parasitism in fall of 2009 compared to 99.7% in June of 2007, showing continued high levels of suppression of the pest by introduced parasitoids and a moderate increase in the proportion of the impact attributable to C. glomerata (from less that 1% in spring 2007 to 13% in fall 2009). Cotesia glomerata was detected at 59% of the 21 sample sites in fall of 2009, showing wide distribution, but low density. (Roy Van Driesche, U. Mass. Goal 2 (Augmentation programs) Objective 4. To release and evaluate augmentative biological control agents and educate the public about their role in pest management. Macrocyclops albidus, the native copepod that is being produced at Philip Alampi Beneficial Insects Laboratory (PABIL) for control of mosquitoes, was released in small woodland pools containing mosquito larvae throughout New Jersey. In cooperation with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, PABIL distributed 18,800 copepods during the 2010 rearing season. (Mark Mayer, PABIL) Western bean cutworm eggs were exposed in the laboratory to Trichogramma ostriniae. High levels of egg parasitism occurred and 3 to 6 T. ostriniae emerged from each parasitized egg, suggesting the potential for biological control of western bean cutworm using Trichogrammatids. Studies were conducted to facilitate commercial production of Trichogramma through post- parasitism cleaning of host eggs by an acoustic vibratory apparatus Other experiments tested spatial arrangements of host eggs for commercial production of Trichogramma. There was no difference in parasitism whether eggs were presented as clusters or singly. Functional response studies conducted in vials showed that percent parasitism decreased with increasing parasitoid density, suggesting that optimal parasitism in commercial rearing can be adjusted by reducing the number of parasitizing females. Ongoing diapause studies confirmed that Trichogramma ostriniae can survive NY winters in some host eggs. This further indicates its potential for perenniation and establishment as a classical biological control agent. Behavioral studies were conducted with an olfactometer to determine whether an induced plant response could facilitate host-finding. Results indicate the presence of induced-plant volatiles that elicited a behavior response by Trichogramma ostriniae. Economic studies of T. ostriniae, alone or integrated with insecticidal sprays in fresh market sweet corn, demonstrated that additional profitability is likely. Using T. ostriniae consistently improved profitability when compared to untreated corn. In the lowest price-yield combination, the change in profit is T. ostriniae 3X > Integrated > Insecticide > T. ostriniae 1X e Untreated Check. At high prices and high yields, the differences between the management options when compared to Untreated Check are considerable. In the highest price-yield combination, the change in profit is T. ostriniae 3X > Integrated >> Insecticide > T. ostriniae 1X >> Untreated Check. (Reported by Mike Hoffman.) Goal 3 (Classical Biological Control) Objective 5. To develop a biological control program for exotic Phragmites australis. A Proposed Plant List for Host Specificity Testing of Potential Biological Control Agents of Introduced Phragmites australis Haplotypes was prepared by Cornell and URI scientists and submitted to the USDA for TAG approval in January, 2009. This list includes proposed biological control agents: Arenostola phragmitidis, Archanara neurica, Archanara dissoluta, and Archanara geminipuncta (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Host specificity testing is underway at URI and CABI Europe Switzerland. In February, 2010 we received eggs of two species of shoot boring moths from collaborators at CABI Switzerland: 500 Archanara neurica and 500 Archanara geminipuncta. This season we changed our testing protocol; instead of forcing egg hatch to match plant phenology, we brought potted test plants into the greenhouse and let the eggs hatch in April as they normally would in Europe. This resulted in improved results from previous years: 87% feeding with A. geminipuncta, and 56% with A. neurica. In 2010 we tested 27 nontarget species, three native Phragmites australis haplotypes, and the exotic Phragmites controls. (Reported by Bernd Blossey and Richard Casagrande.) Objective 6. To develop a biological control program for swallow-worts in North America. We have a TAG test plant list with 86 species including three target hosts. With H. opulenta the 72 non-target species tested to date do not support larval development. Similarly, with A. asclepiadis we have found consistent high larval development on the 3 target species but no successful development on 34 non-target species. We will test the remaining plants on the TAG list with both moths, but based upon results obtained to date; both species appear to be completely specific to the genus Vincetoxicum which is represented in North America by only the target weeds. (Reported by R.A. Casgrande) USDA/ARS research on this target has 3 aspects: 1) Identification and host range testing of potential biocontrol agents. Foreign surveys (9 insect species, 1 pathogen from Europe, Siberia and Russian Far East) and preliminary overseas host-range testing (6 species). Also, literature review in China. U.S. quarantine - currently Abrostola clarissa (Noctuidae). 2) Discover biological attributes of swallow-worts that contribute to their invasiveness and identify points of attack for enhancing biological control efficacy. Both species have much lower cpDNA haplotype and ISSR loci diversities in the introduced range relative to the native range. Only one major genotype is present in North America for both species - invasive genotype of PSW from Ukraine; BSW origin still unknown. BSW is tetraploid; PSW is diploid. -(-) antofine identified as phytotoxin present in roots, leaves, and seeds of PSW and BSW. Highest concentrations in SW seeds; antofine oxide also present in seeds. Active against seedlings of related native species and had antifungal and antibacterial activity. Lab assays and field soil sampling to confirm active release and relevant concentrations; greenhouse assays to follow. Few insects/mites attack introduced SW. GH study: multiple artificial defoliation events needed in fields, or a single event with heavy shading, to affect SW seedlings or mature plants. Field study in progress. Both species have colonized, and can establish in, soils with pH ranging from 4.7 to 8.0. Seedlings can establish and populations persist under a range of disturbance regimens and shading; survival rates of 75% for seedlings and ~100% for mature plants Clonal expansion (annual increase in stem number) can be high in fields; less so in forests. PSW invests in an extensive root-storage system, whereas BSW invests more in shoot growth and early flowering. Life history diagram developed; matrix model study in progress. Additional seed bank and seedling studies ongoing or planned. 3) Release and evaluate establishment and initial impact of biological control agents of swallow-worts. Three years of pre-release PSW density data and 2 years of plant community data collected as part of the ongoing long-term monitoring protocol. (Reported by Lindsey Milbrath.) Objective 7. To establish and evaluate herbivores released against mile-a-minute weed. The weevil Rhinoncomimus latipes, first released in 2004 for control of Persicaria perfoliata, is now well-established in the mid-Atlantic region, and substantial reductions in mile-a-minute weed populations have occurred at some sites. Intensive long-term monitoring continued during 2009 and 2010 at three sites in Southeastern PA, and less intensive monitoring continued at other release sites. Weevils continue to be mass-reared by the NJ Dept. Ag. Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Lab, and were sent to cooperators in four new states in 2009 (NY, CT, RI, and VA), in addition to states where releases had been made in previous years (MD, PA, WV, and NJ). These same states plus MA received weevils for release in 2010. Research combining restoration planting with weevils was initiated in 2008, to address the issue of the invasives treadmill, where reductions in the target weed can lead to increased populations of other alien invasive weeds. Finally, in 2009 a field study was conducted that verified the host specificity of the weevil, which did not feed on closely related non-target plants even when the target host was killed. (Reported by Judy Hough-Goldstein) As part of an agreement with The US Forest Service and APHIS, the mile-a-minute predator, Rhinoncomimus latipes was reared at the Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory to provide weevils for New Jersey and cooperators in the northeastern United States. A total of 14,050 phtyophagous weevils were released in New Jersey, and 62,050 were distributed to Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. The total number of weevils that were produced and distributed by PABIL in 2010 was 76,100. (Reported by Mark Mayer) In July of 2009 we made the first release of Rhinoncomimus latipes weevils in Cranston, RI (2,000 adults). We also took photographs and collected data from permanent quadrats according to the protocol established by Judy Hough-Goldstein from the University of Delaware. In 2010 we released an additional 2,000 weevils at the first release site, and 4,000 weevils at a new site, also in Cranston, RI (approximately 2 miles from the first release site) and we sampled both sites throughout the season as specified in the protocol. (Reported by Lisa Tewksbury) Objective 8. To develop an effective biological control program for the emerald ash borer. Three parasitoids (Tetrastichus planipennisi, Oobius agrili, and Spathius agrili) were imported from China, screened by Gould or Bauer for their safety and released, starting in 2007. To evaluate parasitoid impacts on EAB, three release and three control plots were established near Lansing, MI in 2008 and methods developed to create cohorts of EAB eggs or larvae, and use these cohorts to assess the impacts of parasitoids (released and native) and other mortality factors. All three parasitoids were released in the release plots in 2009 and recoveries there in 2010 confirmed the establishment of all three imported species. Impacts of released and native parasitoids (especially the native genus Atanycolus) had increased significantly by fall 2010. Rates for morality factors affecting EAB cohorts or wild EAB immature stages in the same trees are summarized in several publications. (Reported by Roy Van Driesche) Objective 9. To establish and evaluate natural enemies of the hemlock woolly adelgid and other hemlock pests. During 2009 and 2010, 2,450 L. nigrinus adults were collected near Coeur dAlene, Idaho. These collections were used for releases in the northeastern USA and for mass rearing (850 adults) at the New Jersey PABIL. Research plots have now been established at 42 sites in five states and baseline tree and other vegetation data have been collected. Hemispherical photographs to document baseline hemlock canopy health were taken at all plots and hemlock canopy foliage was collected to document baseline adelgid and scale density. Samples were taken via beating sheeting to recover adults of L. nigrinus and via foliage clipping (spring only) to detect L. nigrinus eggs or larvae. Individual adults were collected at three sites. Larvae were reared from HWA from 11 sites, but await DNA confirmation. Sampling is expected to continue every 2 years for forest change, pest and predator densities. (Reported by Dave Mausel) Molecular diagnostics using DNA barcodes were used to differentiate between larvae of the endemic species of Laricobius rubidus and Laricobius nigrinus, a biological control agent of HWA introduced into the eastern U.S. The larvae of both species are morphologically indistinguishable. Diagnostic nucleotide differences to distinguish species were determined using 157 L. nigrinus and 205 L. rubidus cytochrome oxidase I (COI) barcode sequences. Two polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were developed: PCR followed by restriction length polymorphism (RFLP) and real-time PCR (qPCR) based on hydrolysis probes. The qPCR assay had limited success when applied to L. nigrinus originating from inland vs. coastal populations in the western United States. PCR-RFLP was successful, regardless of sample origin. These two species-specific assays provide a choice of diagnostic tools to best match the available lab equipment and management objectives for those using L. nigrinus as a biological control agent. Following their release into HWA-infested hemlock stands, vertical dispersal of F1 and F2 L. nigrinus on release trees was assessed from within three crown strata (< 7, 7-15, and >15 m) at four forested release sites. Horizontal dispersal was sampled for L. nigrinus at different distances in two separate studies: (1) release and monitor to capture F1 and F2; and (2) assessment of F3 - F6 generational distributions at release sites where beetles were previously determined to be established. L. nigrinus released on the lower crown branches oviposited in the upper crown strata, while the F1 generation was rarely detected on a non-release hemlock. Predator distributions were detectable close to the release areas from F1 F3. F5 F6 generations were often recovered up to 300 m from the release areas. Results were limited to distances sampled and a function of prey availability to detect small, building L. nigrinus populations in a heterogeneous forest. These data contribute to the development of optimal release protocols for this biological control agent. (Reported by Scott Salom) Objective 10. To establish and evaluate natural enemies of the winter moth. We have achieved an important milestone this year in our effort to establish Cyzenis albicans as a biological control of winter moths. For the first time in six years we have concrete evidence that we have successfully established C. albicans at three of six release sites. We have recovered winter moth larvae parasitized by these flies at sites in the Massachusetts towns of Seekonk, Hingham and Falmouth, where we have not released C. albicans for the past two or three years. Thus the flies we recovered there must have successfully over-wintered and reproduced. We also recovered parasitized larvae at Wellesley, but we released flies at that site again in 2010, so we cannot prove that the flies were not from this-years release. To demonstrate establishment requires that we must show that the fly has survived the winter and reproduced. We have extracted DNA from these recovered flies and have sequenced the CO1 gene. The 585 bp nucleotide sequences of the recovered flies are completely identical with those we released, which indicates they are definitely C. albicans and almost certainly from the same population source Our experience now matches closely the Nova Scotia project wherein the yearly releases began in 1954, but no recoveries at all were made until 1959. Previous experience in Nova Scotia or British Columbia suggests that the levels of parasitism should now build rapidly over the next few years. (Reported by Joseph Elkinton.) Objective 11. To distribute and evaluate Peristenus relictus, a parasitoid of the tarnished plant bug. A total of 4,700 Peristenus relictus parasitoids were released on tarnished plant bug in 2010, predominately in Cape May and Cumberland Counties, NJ. (Reported by Mark Mayer, PABIL) Objective 12. To establish and evaluate biological control agents for garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). Objective 13. To investigate potential new biological control projects for the northeast. Lily Leaf Beetle. In 2010 we collected lily leaf beetle larvae from the areas surrounding our initial release sites for three parasitoids in RI, MA, and ME. The parasitoid Tetrastichus setifer continues to be found established in all three states. We are finding greater than 75% parasitism from most of our collections near the Cumberland, RI release site, and we have found the parasitoid up to 8 miles away from this initial release site. Tetrastichus setifer has also dispersed over 12 miles from the initial release site near Boston, MA. Lemophagus errabundus is established in both RI and MA, and has dispersed over 20 miles from the initial release site in Cumberland, RI. A third parasitoid, Diaparsis jucunda was only recovered in Rhode Island in 2010, and within approximately 2 miles of the release site. . (Reported by Lisa Tewksbury and Richard Casagrande.) Biological Control of Knotweeds. Knotweeds are a complex of closely related plants in the genus Fallopia (family Polygonaceae). Potential biological control agents from Japan are being tested in a quarantine at Oregon State University. Three candidates were ruled out due to insufficient host specificity: a leaf beetle, Galerucida bifasciata, and two moths in the genus Ostrinia. However, the psyllid, Aphalara itadori, remains promising as the testing process nears completion. Two strains of this insect are being considered. A northern strain is effective against giant knotweed and a southern strain is effective against Japanese and hybrid knotweed. The southern strain has been released by CABI-Bioscience in the UK. Cooperators in the Northeast USA are providing Fallopia and other test plants. (Reported by Fritzi Grevstad.) Goal 4 (Evaluation and Education) Objective 14. To distribute information on the successful biological control of the birch leafminer throughout the northeastern states. Objective 15. To provide web-based information for growers, landscape managers, educators, and students on biological control programs The Cornell web site on Natural Enemies in North America http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/ent/biocontrol/index.php was updated with a totally new look and organization and now includes a new section on Habitat for Natural Enemies and another on Successes in Biological Control and For Students. Many new units on biological control agents were added. The site was unveiled on Oct. 21. The University of Maryland produces an electronic newsletter throughout the growing season to provide timely information on pest identification and management tactics particularly emphasizing biological controls. This collaborative project involves Extension personnel and Master Gardeners, landscapers, nursery producers, and government agency staff. The newsletter is emailed to over 1,400 stakeholders weekly. (Reported by Mike Raupp.) Objective 16. To publish the results of biological control research in refereed journals, books, and proceedings. See Publication List

Publications

Burns, M. and M. J. Raupp. 2010. Myths from the Undergrowth: Four urban legends about arthropods and the truths behind them! Groundwork. Crampton, L. A. G. M. Loeb, K. A. Hoelmer, and M. P. Hoffmann. 2010. Effect of insecticide regimens on biological control of tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris, by Peristenus spp., in New York State apple orchards. J. Insect Science 10:36. Davidson, J. A. and M. J. Raupp. 2010. Managing insects and mites on woody plants: An IPM approach. Tree Care Industry. Londonderry, NH. 177 pp. Duan, J. J., M. D. Ulyshen, L. S. Bauer, J. Gould, R.G. Van Driesche. 2010. Measuring the impact of biotic factors on populations of immature emerald ash borers (Coleoptera: Buprestidae). Environmental Entomology: 39:1513-1522. Duan, J. J., L. S Bauer, M. D, Ulyshen, J. R. Gould, R. G Van Driesche. Development of methods for the field evaluation of Oobius agrili (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) in North America, a newly introduced egg parasitoid of the emerald ash borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae). Biological Control- in press. Eisenback, B. M., Mullins, D. E., Salom, S. M., Kok, L. T. 2009. Evaluation of ELISA for imidacloprid detection in eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) wood and needle tissues. Pest Management Science. 65:122-128. Eisenback, B. M., S. M. Salom, L. T. Kok and A. F. Lagalante. 2010. Lethal and sublethal effects of imidacloprid on hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae, Hemiptera: Adelgidae) and two introduced predator species in the laboratory. J. Econ. Entomol. 103: 1222-1234. Frank, J. H., Van Driesche, R. G., Hoddle, M. S., and McCoy, E.D. 2010. Biological control of animals. In D. Simberloff and M. Rejamanek (eds.) Encyclopedia of Invasive Introduced Species. University of California Press. Frye, M.J., E.C. Lake, and J. Hough-Goldstein. 2010. Field host specificity of the mile-a-minute weevil, Rhinoncomimus latipes Korotyaev (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Biological Control 55: 234-240. Frye, M.J., E.C. Lake, and J. Hough-Goldstein. 2010. Field host specificity of the mile-a-minute weevil, Rhinoncomimus latipes Korotyaev (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Biological Control 55: 234-240. Gardner, J., M. P. Hoffmann, S. A. Pitcher and J. K. Harper. Integrating insecticides and Trichogramma ostriniae to control European corn borer in sweet corn: economic analysis. Biological control (in press). Gatton, H., Zilahi-Balogh, G. M., Salom, S. M., Kok, L. T. 2009. Biology and temperature-dependent development of Laricobius kangdingensis sp. n., a newly discovered predator of Adelges tsugae. BioControl. 54: 219-228. Hough-Goldstein, J., M. A. Mayer, W. Hudson, G. Robbins, P. Morrison, and R. Reardon. 2009. Monitored releases of Rhinoncomimus latipes (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a biological control agent of mile-a-minute weed (Persicaria perfoliata), 2004-2008. Biological Control 51: 450-457. Hough-Goldstein, J., M. A. Mayer, W. Hudson, G. Robbins, P. Morrison, and R. Reardon. 2009. Monitored releases of Rhinoncomimus latipes (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a biological control agent of mile-a-minute weed (Persicaria perfoliata), 20042008. Biological Control 51: 450-457. Mausel, D. L., S. M. Salom, L. T., Kok, and G. Davis. 2010. Establishment of the hemlock woolly adelgid predator, Laricobius nigrinus (Coleoptera: Derodontidae), in the eastern United States. Environ. Entomol. 39: 440-448. Mausel, D.L., R.G. Van Driesche and J.S. Elkinton Comparative cold tolerance and climate matching of coastal and inland Laricobius nigrinus (Coleoptera: Derodontidae) for biological control of hemlock woolly adelgid. Biological Control -in review. OReilly, A. and R. G. Van Driesche. 2009. Status of Coccobius nr. fulvus (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), parasitoid of euonymus scale (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), 12-16 years after its release in Massachusetts. Florida Entomologist 92: 645-647. Raupp, M.J., P.M. Shrewsbury, and D.H. Herms. 2010. Ecology of herbivorous arthropods in urban landscapes. Annual Review of Entomology. 55:19-38. Raupp, M.J., P. M. Shrewsbury, and D. Herms. 2010. The what and why of insects and mite outbreaks in cities and suburbs. Tree Care Industry. 21: 12-16. Raupp, M.J. 2010. Toward IPM for Emerald Ash Borer. Tree Care Industry. 21(2) 8-14. Reshchikov, A. V., A. Soper and R. G. Van Driesche. Revision of the Nearctic species of Lathrolestes (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), with special reference to species attacking Betula leaf mining Tenthredinidae (Hymenoptera). Zootaxa in press. Smyth, R. R., and M. P. Hoffmann. 2010. Seasonal incidence of two co-occurring adult parasitoids of Acalymma vittatum in New York State: Centistes (Syrrhizus) diabroticae and Celatoria setosa. BioControl. 55: 219-228. Ulshen, M. D., J. J. Duan, L. S. Bauer, J. Gould, P. Tayler, D. Bean, . Holko, and R. Van Driesche. Field cage evaluation of parasitism, development, and overwintering of two recently introduced biological control agents of the emerald ash borer. BioControl in review. Van Driesche, R.G., R.I. Carruthers, T. Center, M.S. Hoddle, J. Hough-Goldstein, L. Morin, L. Smith, D.L. Wagner, et al. 2010. Classical biological control for the protection of natural ecosystems. Biological Control 54: S2 S33. Wagner, D. L. and Van Driesche, R. G. 2010. Threats posed to rare or endangered insects by invasions of nonnative species. Annual Review of Entomology 55: 547-568. Weed, A.S. 2010. Benefits of larval group feeding by Chrysolina a. asclepiadis on Vincetoxicum: improved host location or feeding facilitation? Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata. 137 (3): 220 to 228. Weed, A.S. 2010. Biology and Ecology of European Natural Enemies of Swallow-Worts (Vincetoxicum) and the Potential for Biological Control. PhD dissertation, Dept. Plant Sciences, University of Rhode Island, 196 pp. Weed, A.S., Casagrande, R.A. 2010. Biology and larval feeding impact of Hypena opulenta (Christoph) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): a potential biological control agent for Vincetoxicum nigrum and V. rossicum. Biological Control 53: 214 to 222. Weed, A.S., Casagrande, R.A. 2010. Effects of leaf and root herbivory by potential insect biological control agents on the performance of invasive Vincetoxicum spp. Biological Control. 56(1):50 to 58. Weed, A.S., Casagrande, R.A., A. Gassmann, and A. Leroux. 2010. Performance of potential European biological control agents of Vincetoxicum spp. with notes on their distribution. Journal of Applied Entomology: In press.

Impact Statements

A total of 51 Laricobius nigrinus beetles were recovered from five of eight release sites. The three sites where they were not recovered had extremely low hemlock woolly adelgid populations. This is the highest total annual recovery for any hemlock woolly adelgid predator species. A total of 5,743 L. nigrinus have been released in 2010 with all but 286 going into one site where we hope to examine the effect of a mass release in conjunction with the USPS and under the auspices of the USFS.
Rhinoncomimus latipes was recovered at all 86 release sites in NJ for a recovery rate of 100%. It has also been recovered at 23 dispersal sites showing that the weevil is dispersing quickly on its target host: mile-a-minute vine.
Studies conducted to facilitate commercial production of Trichogramma show that cleaning of host eggs by an acoustic vibratory apparatus will allow improved packaging of host eggs and accurate measurement of parasitism.
Trichogramma ostriniae is now commercially available. Since 2002, the acreage receiving this parasitoid has steadily increased until by 2010 over 80 growers used it on about 1000 acres. Based on documented efficacy, increased demand resulting from NY AES research, and with potential additional markets in other cropping systems such as sweet peppers, grapes and potatoes, we anticipate enough interest and demand to encourage other commercial insectaries to initiate production and distribution.
The mile-a-minute project looks quite promising in RI. By July of 2010 there was moderate weevil feeding damage at the 2009 release site and a significant reduction in seed clusters (27 per quadrant in July 2009, vs. 7 in July 2010). At the second 2010 release site there was moderate weevil feeding damage by July (2 months after initial release) in six of the eight monitoring quadrants. By August weevils were very easy to find in almost every plant terminal of mile-a-minute.
A talk was presented to 187 blueberry growers in July 2010 at a field day in Jonesboro, Maine explaining density dependence, the potential value of parasitoids and blueberry fly management tactics that can reduce detrimental impacts on this parasitoid.
The University of Marylands weekly web-based news journal entitled Bug of the Week www.bugoftheweek.com featured 22 stories of natural enemies commonly found in landscapes and received over 150,000 visits. Additional outreach efforts through television and radio helped educate consumers on pest ecology and management including biological control of insects in and around homes. More than a million viewers received information during interviews with CBS, ABC, NBC, NPR, and Discovery News.

Date of Annual Report: 03/12/2012

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 01/12/2012 - 01/12/2012
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2010 - 09/01/2011

Participants

Boettner, Jeff, Plant and Insect Sciences , UMASS, Amherst, MA; Casagrande, Richard, Department of Plant Sciences, URI; Davis, Gina, PSIS, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA; Dieckhoff, Christine, USDA-ARS, Newark, DE; Elkinton, Joe, PSIS, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA; Hackett, Kevin, USDA-ARS; Hajek, Ann, Department of Entomology, Ithaca, NY; Hoffmann, Michael, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY; Hough-Goldstein, Judy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE; Kenis, Mark, CABI Europe Switzerland, Delemont; Nowierski, USDA-NIFA, Wash. DC; Salom, Scott, Dept. of Entomology, Va Tech; Sing, Sharlene, USFS, Rocky Mountain Research Station; Tewksbury, Elizabeth, Department of Plant Sciences, URI; Van Driesche, Roy, PSIS, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA; Weed, Aaron, Department of Biology, Dartmouth College; Witmore, Mark, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY

Brief Summary of Minutes

The group decided to retain Richard Casagrande as chair for another year with Roy Van Driesche assuming this responsibility at the next meeting. Scott Salom assumed the role of secretary at this meeting and immediately began taking minutes. The secretary will rotate into the chair-elect position at the time the chair-elect becomes chair. Two-yr terms for all officers.

Ann Hajek and Judy Hough-Goldstein volunteered to form and serve on the Rewrite Committee for NE-1032. This project expires on 9/30, 2013.

The regional project meets annually. It was decided that it would meet every two years at the USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species. In alternate years, the meeting venue will rotate among different meetings and locations, with the goal of trying to meet with the S.E. regional biological control project, the Western regional biological control project, and the Entomological Society of America Annual Eastern Branch Meeting.

Robert Nowierski, in his capacity as NE1032 NIFA representative, provided some updates and insights from Washington DC as did Mike Hoffman, administrative advisor to the project.

They stated that the multistate function of our working group is coordinating, and this needs to show up in our annual reports. NERA has up to $10,000 in planning grants and some ideas regarding preparation of proposals were discussed. Michael Hoffman suggested the need for an economic analysis of the benefits of biological control as something that could be coordinated by NE-1032. To do this, a resource economist would have to be identified and recruited for such an effort. Another suggestion was to link climate change with impacts of pests in agriculture and forestry.

In other business, Roy van Driesche proposed a way for assessing the potential for biological control of a full range of insect pests. Develop a website where a description of biological control for a pest can be reviewed by biocontrol specialists and conservation biologists. Such an approach would require: 1) development of the website and 2) list of people who would be notified when a submission is made and needed to be reviewed.

Accomplishments

Individual states detailed reports can be found at: http://cris.nifa.usda.gov with an assisted search for active Hatch projects under NE-1032. What follows below is a brief summary of highlights of these programs organized under goals and objectives of the regional project. Goal 1 (Conservation of existing natural enemies) Objective 1. To conserve natural enemies in blueberry production. Outcomes: In Maine, a flower mix was used to enhance natural enemies of onion thrips. Sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima) was heavily utilized by hover flies (5.3 adults per plant per minute of observation). However, there was no evidence of a subsequent numerical response by hover flies (as measured by hover fly larval density) on onions that were adjacent to the natural enemy nursery planting. (Frank Drummond, U. Maine) Objective 2. To determine the distribution and impact of Cotesia rubecula. Outcomes: In a 2011 cooperative survey of 25 states/provinces to determine the status of this new parasitoid on a large spatial scale we found that C. rubecula now extends in distributional belt north of 38 degrees latitude from New Brunswick to North Dakota. South of 38 degrees, C. glomerata (the old, less efficient parasitoid) remains common; north of this line it has nearly been replaced by C. rubecula. A cohort experiment was conducted in MA to quantify survival of the pest butterfly (Pieris rapae) in both the presence and absence of the parasitoid C. rubecula in the field. We found that survival of groups of larvae of P. rapae was low (<10%) in the presence of natural populations of C. rubecula and other natural enemies, and high (52-77%) when protected by sleeve cages from attack. Parasitism and other natural enemies reduced densities of 5th instars of P. rapae (the principal damaging stage) by 79-86%. (Efforts coordinated by R. Van Driesche (U. Mass.) with cooperators in 25 states/provinces.) Objective 3. To examine the effects of exotic plants on ecosystem function. Nothing reported. Goal 2 (Augmentation programs) Objective 4. To release and evaluate augmentative biological control agents and educate the public about their role in pest management. Outcomes: A total of 98,000 adult Pediobus foveolatus, an average of 4,644 per plot, were released into 26 nurse plots monitored during the 2011 soybean growing season. Additional soybean field releases totaling 408,000 parasites were made to keep pressure on the Mexican bean beetle population. Trichogramma ostriniae was found to have no particular affinity for corn leaves that had previously experienced European corn borer egg masses or a commonly induced plant volatile, methyl salicylate. Thus Trichogramma orientation and host-finding may not be substantively mediated by induced plant volatiles. Cooperative research in Indiana and Nebraska found that when T. ostriniae wasps were introduced into field cages, western bean cutworm eggs were successfully parasitized in bean and corn canopies. This new knowledge shows that some level biological control of western bean cutworm in corn and beans may be possible. Feral Trichogramma collected Lepidoptera eggs from corn, where parasitoid releases had been conducted in central NY several years prior, showed no parasitism by T. ostriniae. This implies that successful overwintering and classical biological control of European corn borers is unlikely despite previous evidence of low levels of overwintering. (M. Hoffmann, Cornell) Goal 3 (Classical Biological Control) Objective 5. To develop a biological control program for exotic Phragmites australis. Outcomes: We continued host range testing of candidate biocontrol agents in quarantine at URI and at CABI-Europe in Switzerland. Testing of Archanara geminipuncta is nearly completed. Blossey made substantial inputs to the National Parks Service program on Strategic Decision Making for management of P. australis and Casagrande addressed the role of biological control in this program. (Cornell U. and URI cooperating with CABI-Europe in Switzerland) Objective 6. To develop a biological control program for swallow-worts in North America. Outcomes: Foreign exploration for biocontrol agents continues through USDA-ARS along with plant demographic modeling. Host range studies are complete for Hypena opulenta and nearing completion for Abrostola clarissa and A. asclepiadis. Milestone: A petition has been submitted to USDA for field release of H. opulenta in 2012. (URI, Milbrath USDA-ARS, and CABI-Europe working in collaboration). Objective 7. To establish and evaluate herbivores released against mile-a-minute weed. Outcomes: In a collaborative regional effort, 76,000 Rhinoncomimus latipes weevils were released in CT, DE, MA, MD, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VA, and WV. Spread is over 4 Km/yr from release sites. Since 2004, the Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory has released 160,538 R. latipes adults into 13 New Jersey counties including six new sites in 2011. In NJ weevils have been recovered at 100% of the release sites as well as at 113 dispersal/non-release sites. PABIL staff is working to increase storage and production of R. latipes. (Program directed by J. Hough-Goldstein- U. Del. working with cooperators in 10 states.) Objective 8. To develop an effective biological control program for the emerald ash borer. Outcomes: Studies continued in Michigan, where research plots were expanded from 6 to 12. In fall 2010, the population growth rate of EAB dropped from 17 in the previous generation (2008-2009) to 3.5, reducing this invasive destructive pest from an explosive species to an expanding species. Principal factors causing this drop were increased woodpecker predation and increased parasitism by native braconds in the genus Atanycolus. Also, all three introduced Chinese parasitoids were found to be firmly established and having some impact. Milestone: Parasitoids (some native, some introduced) are now having an important, but not yet sufficient, impact on survival of EAB larvae. This pest is continues to spread to new states including NY, and releases of the exotic parasitoids have been made by APHIS and local cooperators in most infested areas. The system continues to change but biological control is becoming increasingly important in reducing the population growth of this pest, reducing pressure on ash stands in many areas. (Van Driesche U. Mass. cooperating with APHIS) Objective 9. To establish and evaluate natural enemies of the hemlock woolly adelgid. Outcomes. Laricobius nigrinus has been released in 18 eastern states. Sleeve cage experiments with the inland and coastal races of L. nigrinus support the laboratory results that the inland race is better able to survive winter temperatures in New England. Recoveries of L. nigrinus were made in fall 2010 and spring 2011 at some of the 42 release or control sites being tracked in 5 states to evaluate this predator but frequency and abundance of the predator did not increase noticeably, in part due to high adelgid winter mortality which made adelgids scarce in spring 2011. As of 2011, the NJ Dept. of Agriculture has released 10,567 L. nigrinus beetles and adult beetles have been recovered for seven consecutive years in New Jersey. In 2011 155 larvae and 17 adult L. nigrinus were recovered in the spring with an additional 8 adults collected in fall 2011. This recovery is greater than all previous seasons combined. Milestone: In addition to conducting post-release evaluation of L nigrinis, L. osakensis, another predator from Japan, was evaluated against hemlock woolly adelgid as was hybridization between these exotic and native Laricobius species. L. osakensis was cleared for field release and since it does not hybridize with other species, it will be released. (Collaborative research between Va. Tech., U. Mass, NJ Biological Control Laboratory, US Forest Service.) Objective 10. To establish and evaluate natural enemies of the winter moth. Outcomes: Monitoring of winter moths populations continues in southern New England. The tachinid parasitoid Cyzenis albicans was released in 6 sites in Massachusetts and one site in Rhode Island in 2011. Milestone: Cyzenis albicans was found to be established in 5 sites from previous releases. (J. Elkinton & D. Mausel U.Mass Cooperating with Heather Faubert URI). Objective 11. To distribute and evaluate Peristenus relictus, a parasitoid of the tarnished plant bug. Nothing reported. Objective 12. To establish and evaluate biological control agents for garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). Outcomes: Monitoring of long-term plots in many states has shown garlic mustard populations to decline dramatically in less than a decade. Research continues on the nature of this decline and whether biocontrol of garlic mustard is actually needed. (B. Blossey - Cornell) Objective 13. To investigate potential new biological control projects for the northeast. Outcomes: Quarantine studies were conducted to assess potential risk of importing Eucryptorrhynchus brandti as a biological control agent for the tree of heaven, Ailanthus altissima. Studies focused on biology and host range testing and investigated the potential for this same weevil to carry a naturally occurring pathogenic fungus to uninfested trees. Research results on the weevil and its potential with the fungus as biological control agents were presented at several regional and national meetings and written for a VA Dept. of Forestry Forest Health Newsletter. Milestone: Very promising test results resulted in submission of a release petition for Eucryptorrhynchus brandti to USDA, APHIS in May 2011. (Va. Tech. working in cooperation with Penn. State University) Alfalfa Snout Weevil: Forty five infested alfalfa fields in northern NY inoculated with persistent entomopathogenic nematodes between 2007 and 2009 were subjected to various crop rotations and then tested in 2011 to measure the impact of crop rotation on entomopathogenic nematode persistence. Results of the 4500 soil samples taken in 2011 show that entomopathogenic nematodes persist regardless of cropping system or rotation. This information will be shared stakeholders during 2012 spring field days. (Shields Cornell) Knotweed Biological Control. Anticipating the eventual release of a biological control agent from research underway by cooperators Fritzi Grevstad (Oregon) and Dick Shaw (CABI Great Britain), a monitoring protocol was developed for Japanese/Giant/Bohemian knotweed. (Blossey Cornell & Van Driesche - U. Mass.) Goal 4 (Evaluation and Education) Objective 14. To distribute information on the successful biological control of the birch leafminer throughout the northeastern states. Outcomes: A chapter on biological control of birch leafminer was written by Casagrande for a book that Van Driesche is editing. A survey of entomologists indicates that as in the Northeastern States, the birch leafminer is apparently under complete biological control in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and Minnesota. These states were encouraged to modify their Cooperative Extension recommendations to reflect this reality. (Casagrande-URI and Van Driesche U. Mass. in cooperation with entomologists in 8 states.) Objective 15. To provide web-based information for growers, landscape managers, educators, and students on biological control programs Outcomes: On the website, Biological Control: A Guide to Natural Enemies in North America, (http://www.biocontrol.entomology.cornell.edu/index.php), we added 8 units on specific biological control agents as well as a new section for students that contains hands-on learning games and other exercises to increase the understanding of biological control. (A. Sheldon Cornell) Objective 16. To publish the results of biological control research in refereed journals, books, and proceedings. (See Publications List) Outcomes: A book is under development based on the Biocontrol for Nature meeting in Northampton in 2010. (Editors: Van Driesche U. Mass, Blossey-Cornell, and others). Four members of NE-1032 presented posters and/or spoke at the Thirteenth International Symposium on Biological Control of Weeds in Hawaii in September, 2011. Eight members of NE-1032 spoke at the 23rd USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species in Annapolis, MD

Publications

Cutting, K.J. 2011. An integrated approach to the restoration of areas invaded by mile-a-minute weed (Persicaria perfoliata) using biological control and herbaceous native seeding. M.S. Thesis, University of Delaware, Newark. 62 pp. Cutting, K.J. 2011. An integrated approach to the restoration of areas invaded by mile-a-minute weed (Persicaria perfoliata) using biological control and herbaceous native seeding. M.S. Thesis, University of Delaware, Newark. 62 pp. Davis, G. A., N. P. Havill, Z. N. Adelman, A. Caccone, L. T. Kok, S. M. Salom. 2011. DNA barcodes and molecular diagnostics to distinguish between an introduced and a native Laricobius (Coleoptera: Derodontidae) species in eastern North America. Biological Control. 58: 53-59. Duan, Jian J., L. Bauer, M. Ulyshen, J. Gould, R. Van Driesche. 2010. Development of methods for the field evaluation of Oobius agrili (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) in North America, a newly introduced egg parasitoid of the emerald ash borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae). Biological Control 56: 170 - 174. Herrick, N. J., S. M. Salom, L. T. Kok, and T. J. McAvoy. 2011. Biology, development, and rearing of Eucryptorrynchus brandti (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in quarantine. Annals of the Entomological Society of America. 104: 718 - 725. Herrick, N. J., T. J. McAvoy, S. M. Salom, and L. T. Kok. 2011. Site characteristics of Leitneria floridana (Sapindales: Leitneriaceae) as it relates to a potential biological control effort for the invasive tree-of-heaven, Ailanthus altissima. Phytroneuron. 2011-27: 1 -10. Jandricic, S.E., Wraight, S.P., Bennett, K.C., and Sanderson, J.P. 2010. Developmental Times and Life Table Statistics of Aulacorthum solani (Hemiptera: Aphididae) at Six Constant Temperatures, with Recommendations on the Application of Temperature-Dependent Development Models. Environ. Entomol. 39(5): 1631-1642. Lake, E.C. 2011. Biological control of mile-a-minute weed, Persicaria perfoliata, and integrating weed management techniques to restore invaded sites. Ph.D. dissertation, University of Delaware, Newark. 86 pp. Lake, E.C., Hough-Goldstein, J., Shropshire, K.J., and DAmico, V. 2011. Establishment and dispersal of the biological control weevil Rhinoncomimus latipes on mile-a-minute weed, Persicaria perfoliata. Biological Control 58:294-301. Loughner, R., Nyrop, J., Wentworth, K., Sanderson, J. 2011. Towards enhancing biocontrol of thrips: effects of supplemental pollen and fibers on foliar abundance of Amblyseius swirskii. Page 105-109 in IOBC/wprs Bulletin, Vol. 68 Working Group Integrated Control in Protected crops, Temperate Climate. Sutton Scotney, United Kingdom. Mausel, D. L., R.G. Van Driesche and J.S. Elkinton 2011. Comparative cold tolerance and climate matching of coastal and inland Laricobius nigrinus (Coleoptera: Derodontidae) for biological control of hemlock woolly adelgid. Biological Control 58:96-102. Mausel, D. L., S. M. Salom, and L. T. Kok. 2011. Visual ability and searching behavior of the adelgid predatory beetle, Laricobius nigrinus. J. Insect Sci. 11:111. Mausel, D.L., R.G. Van Driesche, & J.S. Elkinton. 2011. Comparative cold tolerance and climate matching of coastal and inland Laricobius nigrinus (Coleoptera: Derodontidae), a biological control agent of hemlock woolly adelgid. Biological Control. 58: 96-102. Mausel, D.L., R.G. Van Driesche, and J.S. Elkinton. 2010. Long-term Experimental Assessment of Laricobius nigrinus Impact in the Northeast U.S. Proceedings of the 5th Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Symposium, Asheville, NC. Neumann, G. and E. J. Shields. 2011. Field Persistence of Steinernema carpocapsae Weiser (NY001), Steinernema feltiae Filipjev (Valko) and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Poinar (Oswego) in Alfalfa Fields. The Great Lakes Entomologist 44: 42-52. Paradis, A., J. Elkinton, R. Van Driesche, R. Hunkins, S. Lyon, G. Boetter. 2010. Growth and survival of the hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae). Proceedings of the 20th USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species, Annapolis, MD. Shelton. Natural Enemies: 2011. A Guide to Biological Control Agents in North America. http://www.biocontrol.entomology.cornell.edu/index.php Shields, E. J. and A. M. Testa. 2011. Effects of Low Temperature Storage on Fecundity and Adult Mortality for the Alfalfa Snout Beetle, Otiorhynchus ligustici (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). The Great Lakes Entomologist 44: 16- 26. Vieira, L.C., T. J. McAvoy, J. Chantos, A. B. Lamb, S. M. Salom and L. T. Kok. 2011. Host range of Laricobius osakensis (Coleoptera: Derodontidae), a new biological control agent of hemlock woolly adelgid (Hemiptera: Adelgidae). Environ. Entomol. 40: 324-332. Weed A.S., Casagrande R.A. 2011. Evaluation of Host Range and Larval Feeding Impact of Chrysolina aurichalcea asclepiadis (Villa): Considerations for Biological Control of Vincetoxicum in North America. Environmental Entomology. 40(6):1427-1436. Weed, A.S. 2010. Biology and Ecology of European Natural Enemies of Swallow-Worts (Vincetoxicum) and the Potential for Biological Control. PhD dissertation, Dept. Plant Sciences, University of Rhode Island, 196 pp. Weed, A.S., Casagrande, R.A. 2010. Biology and larval feeding impact of Hypena opulenta (Christoph) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): a potential biological control agent for Vincetoxicum nigrum and V. rossicum. Biological Control 53: 214-222. Weed, A.S., Casagrande, R.A., A. Gassmann, and A. Leroux. 2011. Performance of potential European biological control agents of Vincetoxicum spp. with notes on their distribution. Journal of Applied Entomology. 135: 700-713. Weed, A.S., Gassmann, A. Casagrande, R.A. 2011. Effects of leaf and root herbivory by potential insect biological control agents on the performance of invasive Vincetoxicum spp. Biological Control 56: 50-58.

Impact Statements

Objective 2. To determine the distribution and impact of Cotesia rubecula. The benefits to organic cole crop farms from C. rubecula are now substantial due to high levels of suppression of Pieris rapae and widespread, with the parasitoid now dominant over a very large area in the northeast and north central United States and eastern Canada. This reduces imported cabbageworm pest pressure in cabbage and other cole crops, reducing the need for pesticides by conventional producers and increasing product quality for organic farmers.
Objective 4. To release and evaluate augmentative biological control agents and educate the public about their role in pest management. Impacts: There were no reported insecticide treatments for Mexican bean beetle in soybeans in 2011 and there have been none for this pest in NJ since 1987. (Mark Mayer NJ Department of Agriculture-Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory)
Objective 7. To establish and evaluate herbivores released against mile-a-minute weed. Impacts: Overall, it appears that the weevil will be extremely successful in controlling P. perfoliata in some conditions, and will contribute to an integrated management program under others. Sunny, warm, dry conditions foster success as does the presence of competitive native plants available to recolonize as the target plant is suppressed. An integrated program that includes restoration planting along with the weevil can help restore a mostly native ecosystem and avoid the invasive species treadmill. Pre-emergent herbicide is sometimes needed to suppress both mile-a-minute weed and other aggressive annual invasive plants such as Japanese stiltgrass.
Objective 14. To distribute information on the successful biological control of the birch leafminer throughout the northeastern states. Impact. A survey of entomologists in North Central States and recent literature from Canada indicates that as in the Northeastern States, the birch leafminer is under complete biological control in a widespread area including Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and Minnesota. These states were encouraged to modify their Cooperative Extension recommendations to reflect this reality.

Date of Annual Report: 06/17/2013

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 03/19/2013 - 03/19/2013
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2011 - 03/01/2013

Participants

Richard Casagrande, University of Rhode Island; Paula Shrewsbury, University of Maryland; Lisa Tewksbury, University of Rhode Island; Ana Legrand, University of Connecticut; Laura Eckman, University of Connecticut; Max Ragozzino, University of Rhode Island; Ashley Jones,University of Maryland; Dave Jennings, University of Maryland; Thomas Pike, University of Maryland; Lauren Weidner, Rutgers University; Grace Kunkel, University of Maryland; Mary Barbercheck, Penn State University; Chris Taylor, University of Maryland; Heather Connelly, Cornell University; Mike Raupp, University of Maryland; Ruth Hazzard, University of Massachusetts; Art Agnello, Cornell University; Juli Gould, USDA APHIS PPQ; George Hamilton, Rutgers University; Jim Lashomb, Rutgers University; Elwood Roberts, University of Rhode Island; Theresa Murphy, Catskills Region Invasive Species Partnership; Peter Coffey, University of Maryland; Ruth Hazzard, University of Massachusetts; Art Agnello, Cornell University; Juli Gould, USDA APHIS PPQ; George Hamilton, Rutgers University; Jim Lashomb, Rutgers University; Elwood Roberts, University of Rhode Island; Theresa Murphy, Catskills Region Invasive Species Partnership; Peter Coffey, University of Maryland; Christine Dieckhoff, USDA ARS Newark, DE; Claire Rutledge, CT Ag. Expt. Station; John Sanderson, Cornell University; Wendy Leuenberger, Indiana Univ. of Penn; Stephanie Moon, Indiana Univ. of Penn; Dan Gilrein, Cornell Coop. Extension; Judy Hough-Goldstein, University of Delaware; Jeff Gardner, Cornell University; Piyumi Tilanka Obeysekara, Univ. of CT; Dick Bean, Maryland Dept. of Ag; Elson Shields, Cornell University; Tony Shelton, Cornell University

Brief Summary of Minutes

As of March 19, 2013, Roy Van Driesche began his two-year term as chair of this project. Scott Salom is serving as chair-elect and will assume the chairmanship when Roy steps down. Judy Hough-Goldstein, presently secretary, will also assume the role of chair-elect at that time and the group will name a new secretary. The secretary will rotate into the chair-elect position at the time the chair-elect becomes chair. All project officers have two-year terms.

The regional project meets annually, alternating between meetings every other year with the USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species. In alternate years, the meeting venue will rotate among different meetings and locations, with the goal of trying to meet with the S.E. regional biological control project, the western regional biological control project, and the Entomological Society of America Annual Eastern Branch Meeting. After discussion of holding a separate meeting of this regional project vs. meeting in conjunction with another large meeting, it was decided to continue our present strategy. The next meeting of this regional project will be with the USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species at Annapolis in January, 2014. Roy Van Driesche will organize this regional project meeting.

Members were encouraged to consider also attending the meeting of the western regional project on biological control (W3185) to be held at Jackson Wyoming Oct 1 & 2, 2013. Contact Lynn LeBeck llebeck46@comcast.net.

Accomplishments

Individual state detailed reports can be found at: http://cris.nifa.usda.gov with an assisted search for active Hatch projects under NE-1032. What follows below is a brief summary of highlights of these programs organized under goals and objectives of the regional project. Goal 1 (Conservation of existing natural enemies) Objective 1. To conserve natural enemies in blueberry production. Despite much speculation by scientists that honey bees compete with native bees for floral resources and by doing so lower native bee populations, there is no evidence that this happens in Maine. Honey bees should be moved out from blueberry fields as soon as bloom is over, thus allowing native bees full access to the early summer flowering plants. (Frank Drummond, U. Maine) Objective 2. To determine the distribution and impact of Cotesia rubecula. The introduction of Cotesia rubecula (Marshall) has had a positive effect on the conservation of a state-listed native butterfly (Pieris oleracea Harris) formerly suppressed by another parasitoid, Cotesia glomerata (L.), that has now been greatly reduced by competition with C. glomerata. As part of the project to understand how P. oleracea interacted historically with C. glomerata, two experiments were run in 2012, one on degree of attraction of C. glomerata to volatiles from the cuckoo flower (Cardamine praetensis L.), a major new host plant of P. oleracea and the other on the effect on parasitoid foraging of overtopping vegetation. Olfactometer tests showed that parasitoids oriented equally well to cuckoo flower foliage infested with P. oleracea larvae and infested collard foliage, suggesting that this was not the mechanism by which P. oleracea escaped parasitism when shifting to cuckoo flower. Field cage experiments with overtopped natural vegetation vs clipped vegetation showed that the presence of overtopping vegetation reduced attack rates by C. glomerata on P. oleracea larvae on both cuckoo flower and collards by almost fifty percentage points (from 72% in clipped to 23% in overtopping), suggesting that this factor likely provided butterfly larvae with at least partial escape from parasitism. (R. Van Driesche (U. Mass.) Objective 3. To examine the effects of exotic plants on ecosystem function. Exotic plants have been shown to cause loss of native arthropods and vertebrates in domestic landscapes in the Mid-Atlantic States. However, the response of arthropods to native woody landscapes compared to exotic was somewhat taxon specific. There was no difference in overall levels of feeding damage in native compared to exotic woody landscapes, but native landscapes suffered greater chewing damage, and exotic landscapes suffered greater discoloration damage. Discussions with gardening enthusiasts suggest there is increasing awareness of the importance of plant function rather than just plant origin. (Paula Shrewsbury and Mike Raupp, Univ. of Md.) Goal 2 (Augmentation programs) Objective 4. To release and evaluate augmentative biological control agents and educate the public about their role in pest management. In NJ the Mexican bean beetle (MBB) Epilachna varivestis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) biological control program involved 28 growers and 33 survey locations with a history of Mexican bean beetle pressure. A total of 256,000 adult P. foveolatus, 8,000 per location, were released. Additional soybean field releases totaling 278,000 parasites were made in 23 sites to keep pressure on the Mexican bean beetle population. Thus, during the 2012 season a total of 534,000 P. foveolatus were released statewide. Trichogramma ostriniae was found to have no particular affinity for corn leaves that had previously experienced European corn borer egg masses or a commonly induced plant volatile, methyl salicylate. Thus Trichogramma orientation and host-finding may not be substantively mediated by induced plant volatiles. Cooperative research in Indiana and Nebraska found that when T. ostriniae wasps were introduced into field cages, western bean cutworm eggs were successfully parasitized in bean and corn canopies. This new knowledge shows that some level biological control of western bean cutworm in corn and beans may be possible. Feral Trichogramma collected Lepidoptera eggs from corn, where parasitoid releases had been conducted in central NY several years prior, showed low levels of parasitism by T. ostriniae. This demonstrates that successful overwintering is occurring but is not adequate for classical biological control of European corn borer. (M. Hoffmann, Cornell) Goal 3 (Classical Biological Control) Objective 5. To develop a biological control program for exotic Phragmites australis. Host range testing of candidate biocontrol agents was continued in quarantine at URI and at CABI-Europe in Switzerland. Testing of Archanara geminipuncta should be complete by the end of the 2013 season. (Cornell U. and URI cooperating with CABI-Europe in Switzerland) Objective 6. To develop a biological control program for swallow-worts in North America. Foreign exploration for biocontrol agents continues through USDA-ARS along with plant demographic modeling. Host range studies are complete for Hypena opulenta and nearing completion for Abrostola clarissa and A. asclepiadis. Milestone: A petition was submitted to USDA for field release of H. opulenta in 2012. It was revised, as requested by TAG and resubmitted. (URI, Milbrath USDA-ARS, and CABI-Europe working in collaboration). Objective 7. To establish and evaluate herbivores released against mile-a-minute weed. The weevil Rhinoncomimus latipes, first released in 2004 for control of mile-a-minute weed, Persicaria perfoliata, is now well-established in the mid-Atlantic region and parts of surrounding states. In 2012, more than 76,000 weevils were reared and shipped from the NJ Department of Agriculture Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory and released in 10 states in the Northeast, from MA to VA, and west to WV. A Mile-a-Minute Weed Biocontrol Cooperators Meeting was hosted by the Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory at the New Jersey Public Health, Environmental and Agricultural Laboratory (PHEAL), on Feb. 16, 2012, attended by 77 people from 8 states plus DC. Since 2004, the Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory has released 170,618 R. latipes adults into 13 New Jersey counties including five new sites in 2012. Weevils have been recovered at all of the release sites (100%) as well as at 168 dispersal/non-release sites, 55 of which were found in 2012. That represents the highest number of dispersal sites found in any one year. All new 2012 release sites already had R. latipes present before any releases were made! Objective 8. To develop an effective biological control program for the emerald ash borer. At least two of three introduced Chinese parasitoids are established in Michigan. Parasitoid populations continued to increase the level of control they exerted on the invasive pest. In 2012, parasitism by the introduced parasitoid Tetrastichus planipennisi in research study plots increased sharply to levels of 20-30% in some plots. Survival of emerald ash borer in the 2012 generation again dropped, to levels below 10%. Pest survival is now sufficiently low that population growth of the pest was minimal and densities in research plots were, or soon will be, declining. Ash trees in plots have increased prospects for survival. These events show that biological control of emerald ash borer is working and protection of the ash resource is potentially an obtainable goal in the near term. (Van Driesche U. Mass. cooperating with APHIS). In 2012 releases of Tetrastichus planipennisi, Spathius agrili, and Oobius agrili were made in Maryland at two regions of the state. Tetrastichus planipennisi and Spathius agrili were recovered at both locations and estimates of rates of parasitism will be conducted at both sites in 2013. Life table studies examining EAB survival and mortality factors are also underway. (Shrewsbury and Jennings, U of MD, cooperating with Jian Duan, USDA ARS). Objective 9. To establish and evaluate natural enemies of the hemlock woolly adelgid. The adelgid predator, Laricobius nigrinus has been released in 18 eastern states. Sleeve cage experiments with the inland and coastal races of L. nigrinus support the laboratory results that the inland race is better able to survive winter temperatures in New England. This species seems to be established and increasing in some areas. A total of 10,567 L. nigrinus have been released in New Jersey since 2005. In 2012 a grand total of 468 larvae and 2 adult L. nigrinus were recovered in the spring with an additional 19 adults collected in fall 2012. This represents not only the largest single yearly total of hemlock woolly adelgid predators that have ever been recovered in NJ in one season but the total is greater than all previous seasons combined. One recovery was from the 2005 release site in Worthington SF which is eight consecutive years of recoveries for that site. We have confirmed dispersal of L. nigrinus of up to 730 meters from the closest release site. Research on L. osakensis, another predator from Japan, has focused on its ability to survive, feed on prey, and reproduce in a forested setting. Adults survived from December to April in sleeve cages at two mountain sites in western VA. Females laid eggs during the entire sample period, with the highest numbers being laid during March and April. Adelgid densities were significantly lower on branches with predators than branches without predators. (Collaborative research between Va. Tech., U. Mass, NJ Biological Control Laboratory, US Forest Service.) Objective 10. To establish and evaluate natural enemies of the winter moth. Monitoring of winter moths populations continues in southern New England. The tachinid parasitoid Cyzenis albicans was released in 6 sites in Massachusetts and one site in Rhode Island. (J. Elkinton & D. Mausel - U.Mass Cooperating with Heather Faubert URI), with the highest parasitism being recovered being 30% at one MA site. Objective 11. To distribute and evaluate Peristenus relictus, a parasitoid of the tarnished plant bug. Nothing reported. Objective 12. To establish and evaluate biological control agents for garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). Monitoring of long-term plots in many states has shown garlic mustard populations to decline dramatically in less than a decade. Research continues on the nature of this decline and whether biocontrol of garlic mustard is actually needed. (B. Blossey - Cornell) Objective 13. To investigate potential new biological control projects for the northeast. In testing the feasibility of using persistent entomopathogenic nematodes to kill Japanese beetle grubs in grape row middles, a combination of three species of nematodes was applied in 2012. Despite low regional populations of Japanese beetle, early test results indicate some suppression of Japanese beetle populations by entomopathogenic nematodes that translated into reduced damage. (G. Loeb, E. Shields, and T. Weigle, N Y Ag. Exp. Stn. Geneva, NY. Behavioral studies were conducted on two established parasitoids, Tiphia vernalis and T. popilliavora attacking Japanese beetles and oriental beetles. T. popilliavora spent considerably longer times attacking oriental beetle grubs than Japanese beetle larvae, perhaps because of the Oriental beetles more active defensive behaviors. (A. Legrand, Univ. of Ct.) Quarantine studies were conducted to assess potential risk of importing Eucryptorrhynchus brandti as a biological control agent for the tree of heaven, Ailanthus altissima. Studies focused on biology and host range testing and investigated the potential for this same weevil to carry a naturally occurring pathogenic fungus to uninfested trees. Research results on the weevil and its potential with the fungus as biological control agents were presented at several regional and national meetings and written for a VA Dept. of Forestry Forest Health Newsletter. (Va. Tech. working in cooperation with Penn. State University) Alfalfa Snout Weevil: Forty five infested alfalfa fields in northern NY inoculated with persistent entomopathogenic nematodes between 2007 and 2009 were subjected to various crop rotations and then tested in 2011 to measure the impact of crop rotation on entomopathogenic nematode persistence. Results of the 4500 soil samples taken in 2011 show that entomopathogenic nematodes persist regardless of cropping system or rotation. This information was shared with stakeholders during 2012 spring field days. (Shields Cornell) Knotweed Biological Control. Anticipating the eventual release of a biological control agent from research underway by cooperators Fritzi Grevstad (Oregon) and Dick Shaw (CABI Great Britain), a monitoring protocol was developed for Japanese/Giant/Bohemian knotweed. (Blossey - Cornell, Van Driesche - U. Mass., Grevstat (Oregon State U.) Brown Marmorated Stink Bug Biological Control by indigenous natural enemies. Field surveys conducted in commercial ornamental plant nurseries in 2011 and 2012 revealed surprisingly high levels of mortality due to eggs parasitoids and predators. Average total mortality in nurseries exceeded 50%, 34% of which was due to parasitism by eupelmids and platygastrids. (Shrewsbury and Jones U of MD). Brown Marmorated Stink Bug Control with fungal pathogens. Strains of Metarhizium and Beauvaria are under evaluation for use in direct applications and attract and kill approaches for controlling BMSB. (Shrewsbury and Pike, U of MD). Effects of urbanization on carabid communities. Using a meta-analysis, we found that the number of carabid species in cities was only 77.6% that of corresponding rural sites, whereas assemblage abundance was relatively consistent between rural and urban sites. The most negative effects were for large, forest-specialist beetles that were predatory or omnivorous. (Raupp and Martinson, U of MD). Goal 4 (Evaluation and Education) Objective 14. To distribute information on the successful biological control of the birch leafminer throughout the northeastern states. The BLM has been successfully controlled by Lathroles nigricollis throughout the Northeast and well into Canada and the mid-western states and there is no need for additional control efforts against this pest. This information was distributed to all northeast IPM coordinators and at New England Grows and in a Forest Service publication currently in press. Objective 15. To provide web-based information for growers, landscape managers, educators, and students on biological control programs. The highly popular web site, Natural Enemies: a Guide to Biological Control Agents in North America, http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/ent/biocontrol, is the most widely accessed web site on biological control according to Google. It is accessed by students from grade school to graduate school, and by the general public and the scientific community. Through this site, field workers attempting to initiate programs are able to find researchers who can guide them. Contributors are enthusiastic about this project and the public response to it, and often answer questions from site visitors. (T. Shelton, J. Nyrop, G. Loeb, and A. Agnello Cornell Univ.) The University of Maryland continues to produce an electronic newsletter Landscape and Nursery IPM Pest Alert throughout the growing season to provide timely information on pest identification and management tactics particularly emphasizing biological controls. This collaborative project involves Extension personnel and Master Gardeners, landscapers, nursery producers, and government agency staff. The newsletter is emailed to over 2,200 stakeholders in over 20 states weekly. A recent survey of users of the weekly electronic newsletter demonstrated the IPM Pest Alert greatly improved their abilities to identify, monitor, and control pest problems. For example, the survey indicated that the following percentage of respondents (of ~268) selected the highest ranking for the following questions: Usefulness (87 %); help identify pests (99%); help to monitor and control pests (96%); reduce pesticide applications (66%); select less toxic pesticides (66%); select alternatives to conventional pesticides (84%); recognize beneficial insects (96%); does this information help you make money? (16% yes). (P. Shrewsbury, U. of MD.) Objective 16. To publish the results of biological control research in refereed journals, books, and proceedings. (See publications list.)

Publications

Abell, K.J., Duan, J.J., Bauer, L., Lelito, J.P., and Van Driesche, R.G. 2012. The effect of bark thickness on the effectiveness of Tetrastichus planipennisi (Hymen: Eulophidae) and Atanycolus spp. (Hymen: Braconidae) two parasitoids of emerald ash borer (Coleop: Buprestidae). Biological Control 63:320-325. Davis, G. A., S. M. Salom, C. C. Brewster, B. P. Onken, L. T. Kok. 2012. Spatiotemporal distribution of the hemlock woolly aelgid predator Laricobius nigrinus after release in eastern hemlock forests. Agric. and For. Entomol. 14: 408-418. doi: 10.1111/j.1461-9563.2012.00581. Duan, J.J., Bauer, L., Abell, K.J., and Van Driesche, R. 2012. Population responses of hymenopteran parasitoids to the emerald ash borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) in recently invaded areas in Michigan. BioContr. 57:199-209. Frye, M.J., J. Hough-Goldstein, and K. Kidd. 2012. Response of kudzu (Pueraria montana var. lobata) to different types and levels of simulated insect herbivore damage. Biological Control 61:71-77. Frye, M.J., J. Hough-Goldstein, and K.A. Kidd. 2012. Response of kudzu (Pueraria montana var. lobata) seedlings and naturalized plants to simulated herbivory. Invasive Plant Science and Management 5:417-426. Gardner, J., Hoffmann, M. P., Pitcher, S. A., Nyrop, J. P. 2012. Recurrent warming to improve cold storage of Trichogrammatids (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae). Biocontrol Science and Technology 22(3)261-270. Gardner, J., Wright, M. G., Kuhar, T. P., Pitcher, S. A., Hoffmann, M. P. 2012. Dispersal of Trichogramma ostriniae in field corn. Biocontrol Science and Technology. 22(10)1221-1233. Hazlehurst, Alex F.; Weed, A. S., Tewksbury, L, Casagrande, R.A. 2012. Host Specificity of Hypena opulenta: A potential biological control agent of Vincetoxicum in North America. Environmental Entomology, Volume 41, Issue 4, pp. 841-848. Herlihy, M.V., Van Driesche, R.G., Abney, M.R., Brodeur, J., Bryant, A.B., Casagrande, R.A., Delaney, D.A., Elkner, T.E., Fleischer, J. L., Groves, R.L. Gruner, D.S., Harmon, J.P., Heimpel, G.E., Hemady, K., Kuhar, T. P., Maund, C.M., Shelton, A.M., Seaman, A. J., Skinner, M., Weinzierl, R., Yeargan, K. V., and Szendrei, Z. 2012. Distribution of Cotesia rubecula (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and its displacement of Cotesia glomerata in eastern North America. Florida Entomol. 95:458-464. Herrick, N. J., T. J. McAvoy, A. L. Snyder, S. M. Salom, and L. T. Kok. 2012. Host-range testing of Eucryptorrhynchus brandti (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a candidate for biological control of tree-of-heaven, Ailanthus altissima. Environ. Entomol. 41: 118-124. Hough-Goldstein, J. and S. LaCoss. 2012. Interactive effects of light environment and herbivory on growth and productivity of an invasive annual vine, Persicaria perfoliata. Arthropod-Plant Interactions 6:103-112. Hough-Goldstein, J., E. Lake, and R. Reardon. 2012. Status of an ongoing biological control program for the invasive vine, Persicaria perfoliata in eastern North America. BioControl 57:181-189. Hough-Goldstein, J.A. 2012. Is Typhoid Mary a good role model (Invited expert commentary on featured article). Animal Conservation 15:553-554. Liu, X., M. Chen, D. Onstad, R. Roush, H. Collins, E. D. Earle and A. M. Shelton. 2012. Effect of Bt broccoli or broccoli treated with insecticides on ovipositional preference and larval survival of Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae). Environ. Entomol. 41: 880-886. Liu, X., M. Chen, H. Collins, D. Onstad, R. Roush, Q. Zhang and A. M. Shelton. 2012. Effect of insecticides and Plutella xylostella genotype on a predator and parasitoid and implications for the evolution of insecticide resistance. J. Econ. Entomol. 105: 354-362. Martinson, H. M., and M. J. Raupp. 2013. A meta-analysis of the effects of urbanization on ground beetle communities. Ecosphere 4(5):60. http://dx.doi.org/10.1890/ES12-00262.1 Raupp, M.J., P.M. Shrewsbury, and D.A. Herms. 2012. Disasters by Design: Outbreaks along urban gradients. In: Insect Outbreaks - Revisited. (eds. P. Barbosa, D.K. Letourneau, and A.A. Agrawal). John Wiley & Sons, Ltd, Chichester, UK. ISBN: 9781444337594. Table of contents available at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/book/10.1002/9781118295205 Salom, S. M., L. T. Kok, A. B. Lamb, and C. Jubb. 2012. Laboratory rearing of Laricobius nigrinus [Coleoptera: Derodontidae], a predator of the hemlock woolly adelgid [Hemiptera: Adelgidae]. Psyche. vol. 2012, Article ID 936519, 9 pages, doi: 10.1155/2012/936519. Shelton, A. M., S. Naranjo, J. Romeis, and R. H. Hellmich. 2012. Errors in Logic and Statistics Plague a Meta-Analysis (response to Andow et al. 2012). Environ. Entomol. 41:1047-9. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1603/EN11238. Shrewsbury, P.M. and S.R. Leather. 2012. Using biodiversity for pest suppression in urban landscapes. In: Biodiversity and insect pests: Key issues for sustainable management. (eds. G.M. Gurr, S.D. Wratten, and W.E. Snyder). John Wiley & Sons Ltd, Chichester, UK. ISBN: 978-0-470-65686-0. Table of contents available at: http://au.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0470656867,descCd-tableOfContents.html Snyder, A. L., S. M. Salom, L. T. Kok, G. J. Griffin, D. D. Davis. 2012. Story, Heather M.*, Ligia C. Vieira*, Scott M. Salom, and Loke T. Kok. 2012. Assessing performance and competition among three Laricobius (Coleoptera: Derodontidae) species, predators of hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae (Hemiptera: Adelgidae). Environ. Entomol. 41: 896-904. Tian, J., Y. Chen, Z-L Li, K. Li, M. Chen, Y-F Peng, C. Hu, A. M. Shelton and G-Y Ye. 2012. Transgenic Cry1Ab rice does not impact ecological fitness and predation of a generalist spider. PLoS One Ulyshen, M.D., Duan, J.J., Bauer, L.S., Gould, J., Taylor, P., Bean, D., Holko, C., and Van Driesche., R. 2011. Field-cage evaluation of parasitism, development, and overwintering of two recently introduced biological control agents of the emerald ash borer. J. Insect Sci. 11:1-10. Vieira, L. C., S. M. Salom and L. T. Kok. 2012. Functional and numerical response of Laricobius spp. predators (Coleoptera: Derodontidae) on hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae (Hemiptera: Adelgidae). Biological Control. 61: 47-54. Yang, S., Duan, J.J., Lelito, J. and Van Driesche, R. 2012. Multiparasitism by Tetrastichus planipennisi (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) and Spathius agrili (Hymenoptera:Braconidae): Implication for biological control of the emerald ash borer larvae (Coleoptera: Buprestidae). Biological Control (in press). Yang, S., Duan, J.J., Watt, T., Abell, K., and Van Driesche, R.G. 2012. Responses of an idiobiont ectoparasitoid Spathius galinae to host larvae parasitized by the koinobiont endoparasitoid Tetrastichus planipennisi: implications for biological control of the emerald ash borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae). Environ. Entomol. 41:925-932.

Impact Statements

Cotesia rubecula is now dominant in the northeast and north central United States and eastern Canada. High suppression of Pieris rapae reduces pest pressure in cole crops, thereby reducing pesticide applications by conventional producers and increasing product quality for organic farmers. Interactions between two introduced parasitoids (C. rubecula and C. glomerata) and an introduced plant (Cardamine praetensis) have benefitted a native butterfly (Pieris oleracea), a state-listed rare species in Massachusetts. This is a positive benefit to conservation biology from the introduction of a biological control agent (C. rubecula).
There were no reported insecticide treatments for Mexican bean beetle in NJ soybeans in 2012.
Overall conclusions reached so far are that the biocontrol weevil will be extremely successful in controlling mile-a-minute P. perfoliata on its own in certain circumstances, and will contribute to an integrated management program under other conditions (program to date is summarized in Hough-Goldstein et al. 2012).
Laricobius osakensis was cleared for field release against the hemlock woolly adelgid and since it does not hybridize with other species, it will be released.
Cyzenis albicans was found to be established in 5 sites from previous releases.
Very promising test results resulted in submission of a release petition for Eucryptorrhynchus brandti against Tree of Heaven to USDA, APHIS.
A release permit request was submitted to USDA-APHIS to release Aphalara itadori, the Japanese knotweed psyllid in the USA.
The Cornell web site http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/ent/biocontrol serves more than 220,000 pages to more than 150,000 different computers each month. This makes it the most popular website for biological control. In addition to this biocontrol website, we continue to advance knowledge about the lack of harm from Bt plants on natural enemies.