W5185: Biological Control in Pest Management Systems of Plants

(Multistate Research Project)

Status: Active

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SAES-422 Reports

Annual/Termination Reports:

[01/04/2023] [12/19/2023] [12/27/2024]

Date of Annual Report: 01/04/2023

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 10/10/2022 - 10/12/2022
Period the Report Covers: 04/01/2022 - 12/31/2022

Participants

• California Department of Food & Agriculture: Chris Borkent (chris.borkent@cdfa.ca.gov), Ricky Lara (Ricky.Lara@cdfa.ca.gov)
• California Experiment Station, University of California, Berkeley: Kent M. Daane (kdaane@ucanr.edu), Nicholas J. Mills (nmills@berkeley.edu), George Roderick (Roderick@berkeley.edu); UC Davis, Jay A. Rosenheim (jarosenheim@ucdavis.edu), Emily Meineke (ekmeineke@ucdavis.edu); UC Riverside: Adler Dillman (adlerd@ucr.edu), Jocelyn Millar (jocelyn.millar@ucr.edu), Kerry Mauck (kerry.mauck@ucr.edu), John M. Heraty (john.heraty@ucr.edu), Mark Hoddle (mark.hoddle@ucr.edu), Christiane Weirauch (christiane.weirauch@ucr.edu), Houston Wilson (Houston.wilson@ucr.edu), Erin Rankin (erin.wilson@ucr.edu); USDA-ARS Xingeng Wang (xggwang@usda.ars.gov), Kim Hoelmer (kim.hoelmer@ars.usda.gov), Mathew Buffington (matt.buffington@ars.usda.gov), Brian Hogg (brian.hogg@usda.ars.gov), Keith Hopper (khopper@udel.edu); UC Cooperative Extension, Monica Cooper (mlycooper@ucanr.edu)

• Colorado Experiment Station, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Dept. of Bioagricultural Sciences & Pest Management: Ruth Hufbauer (hufbauer@lamar.colostate.edu), Andrew Norton (Andrew.norton@colostate.edu), Paul Ode (paul.ode@colostate.edu).

• Florida Experiment Station, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida:
Norman C. Leppla (ncleppa@ufl.edu).

• Guam Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Guam, Mangilao: Ross H. Miller (rmiller@triton.uog.edu), Aubrey Moore (amoore@triton.uog.edu)

• Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Idaho, Moscow, Dept. of Plant, Soil and Entomological Sciences: Mark Schwarzlaender (markschw@uidaho.edu).

• Indiana Agricultural Experiment Station, Purdue University, Dept. of Entomology: Laura Ingwell (lingwell@purdue.edu).

• Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, Michigan State University, Dept. of Entomology, East Lansing, MI: Marianna Szucs (szucsmr@msu.edu)

• Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Minnesota, Department of Entomology, St. Paul, MN: George Heimpel (heimp001@umn.edu).

• Montana Agricultural Experiment Station, Montana State University: Western Agricultural Research Center: Jeffrey Littlefield (jeffreyl@montana.edu).

• New Mexico Agricultural Experiment Station, New Mexico State University, Department of Entomology, Plant Pathology and Weed Science, Las Cruces: David C. Thompson (dathomps@nmsu.edu), Kristen Bowers (kebowers@nmsu.edu)

• Oregon Agricultural Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Corvallis: Silvia Rondon (silvia.rondon@oregonstate.edu); Joel Felix (joel.felix@oregonstate.edu), John Spring (john.spring@oregonstate.edu), Rory McDonnell (mcdonnro@oregonstate.edu).

• Oregon Department of Agriculture, Max Ragozzino (Max.Ragozzino@oda.oregon.gov)
• Oregon IPM Center/Oregon State University, Christopher Hedstrom (chris.hedstrom@oregonstate.edu), Jessica Green, Oregon State University, (Jessica.green@oregonstate.edu), Silvia Rondon, Oregon State University, (silvia.rondon@oregonstate.edu), Vaughn Walton, Oregon State University, (Vaughn.walton@oregonstate.edu), Nik Wiman, Oregon State University, (Nik.Wiman@oregonstate.edu), Jana Lee, USDA-ARS, Corvallis, Oregon, (jana.lee@usda.gov)
• United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Albany,
California: Patrick Moran (Patrick.moran@ars.usda.gov), Brian N. Hogg (Brian.Hogg@usda.gov), Brian Rector (Brian.Rector@usda.gov), Paul D. Pratt (Paul.Pratt@usda.gov)
• United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Edinburg, Texas: John Goolsby (john.goolsby@usda.gov)

• United States Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Research Service, European Biological Control Laboratory, Montpelier, France: Michael Grodowitz (michael.grodowitz@usda.gov), Robert Shatters (robert.shatters@usda.gov), René FH Sforza (rsforza@ars-ebcl.org) Marie-Claude Bon (mcbon@ars-ebcl.org), Javid Kashefi (jkashefi@ars-ebcl.org), Mélanie Tannières (mtannieres@ars-ebcl.org), Gaylord Desurmont (gdesurmont@ars-ebcl.org)

• Vermont Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Vermont: Margaret Skinner (mskinner@uvm.edu), Bruce Parker (bparker@uvm.edu)

• Wyoming Agricultural Experiment Station, Dept. of Renewable Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY: Tim Collier (tcollier@uwyo.edu); Randa Jabbour (rjabbour@uwyo.edu).

• Other: Association of Natural Biocontrol Producers, Lynn LeBeck (exdir@anbp.org).

• Administrative Advisor: University of Idaho, Moscow, Dept. of Plant, Soil and Entomological Sciences: Sanford Eigenbrode (sanforde@uidaho.edu).

Brief Summary of Minutes

COOPERATIVE REGIONAL PROJECT W5185

Biological Control in Pest Management Systems of Plants Annual Meeting

October 10-October 12, 2022

YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park

Organizers: Ruth Hufbauer hufbauer@colostate.edu, 970-420-3272;

Lynn LeBeck (llebeck46@comcast.net)

2022 W5185 Program and Minutes

The W5185 traditionally meets for 2 days in the fall in a location that fosters a somewhat remote environment excellent for networking and focused discussion. W5185 is a multistate research project utilizing biological control to manage the arthropods, mites, and weedy plants causing severe economic harm in the western United States. Participants in this symposium will present updates on their collaborations and research projects related to accomplishing the goals and objectives of the W5185 project.

Agenda

Monday October 10

Arrive on site

4:00 Registration and Snacks in Longs Peak Diamond East

6:30 Dinner in the Aspen Dining Room for people staying at the YMCA

Tuesday October 11

8:00 Registration in Longs Peak Diamond East

8:15 Welcome and Land Acknowledgement

Research and Program updates I (8:30-9:40)

8:30 René Sforza (remote) - USDA ARS European Biological Control Laboratory, Montpellier France – EBCL research activities: The 2022 update for weeds and insect pests

8:50 Francesca Marini – Biotechnology and BioControl Agency (BBCA), Rome, Italy BBCA during the pandemic: update on weed research activities

9:10 Chris Borkent – California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) update

9:25 Chris Hedstrom – Oregon IPM Center update

9:40 AM Break

Genomic and Evolutionary Approaches in Biological Control (10:15-11:30 plus discussion)

10:15 Amanda Stalke – Risk and Efficacy of Invasive Plant Biocontrol through the Lens of Genomics

10:30 Eliza Clark - Fitness and host use remain stable after many years of hybridization of Diorhabda biological control agents

10:45 Randa Jabbour – Using molecular techniques to estimate parasitism rate by biocontrol agents

11:00 Steve Novak – Mating system of native and invasive populations of medusahead (Taeniatherum caput-medusae): evidence for prior adaptation during biological invasion

11:20 Discussion

12:00 PM Lunch for all registrants (staying at Y or not) at Aspen Dining Room

Research and Program Updates II (2:00-3:15)

2:00 Marianna Szucs - Updates on releases and fitness of different populations of Hypena

2:15 Fritzi Grevstad - News from the knotweed biocontrol program: three years of releases of the psyllid, Aphalara itadori

2:30 Joey Milan – Post release monitoring

2:45 Ricky Lara - Diamond Back Moth update

2:55 Brian Hogg Tuta absoluta update

3:05 Tim Collier – Wyoming Weed Biocontrol efforts

3:15 Break

Collaborative Research and Implementation discussions and planning

6:00 PM Reception in the Walnut Room, generously hosted by Lynn and Marshall

Wednesday October 12

Research and Biocontrol Updates III (8:45-9:45)

8:45 Sonya Daly – Russian knapweed biocontrol in Colorado, first signs of success using two gall forming agents

9:00 Kristi Gladem – Updates on rearing Ceratapion basicorne, a rosette feeding weevil for use against yellow starthistle

9:15 John Kaltenback – Leafy Spurge Biocontrol in CO

9:30 Judith Herreid – Hyperparasitoids in Alfalfa Biocontrol

9:45 Break

W5185 planning session

10:15 Joey Milan - Vote (or twist arms!) to find a Member-at-Large

Programming and planning for 2023

Collaborative Research and Implementation discussions and planning

Status of project. The renewal was accepted and with Sanford Eigenbrode as the Advisor.

Nominations and election of new Secretary and Member-at-Large. Joey Milan (BLM – ID) was selected as the Secretary and Chris Hedstrom (OSU – OR) was selected as the Member-at-Large. These officers will be responsible for meetings in the next 2 years.

Annual report. Final individual reports are due 60 days after the conclusion of the annual meeting (December 7^th, 2022), although an extension was granted until January 7^th, 2023.

Location of next meeting. The group unanimously voted to hold the next meeting in McCall, ID at the Shore Lodge from October 23-25^th, 2023. Joey Milan relayed the results of the group via email to those that left the meeting early or could not attend in person. Our normal 2 day meeting allows for members who travel farther distances to justify a comprehensive experience. We are now back on schedule after Covid-19 disrupted our meetings for the past 2+ years.

Accomplishments

Objective 1: Import and Establish Effective Natural Enemies   Objective 1a.  Survey indigenous natural enemies.   Orasema minutissima (Hymenoptera: Eucharitidae), a parasitoid of the little fire ant, Wasmannia auropunctata was recently discovered on the Big Island of Hawaii.  O. minutissima has not been observed parasitizing W. auropunctata on Guam. Further comprehensive surveys are needed to ascertain its presence or absence from W. auropunctata populations on Guam.   Surveys for natural enemies of invasive gastropods in Washington State resulted in the discovery of Phasmarhabditis californica. The latter is a malacopathogenic nematode, which has recently been commercialized in Europe. This was the first record of P. californica in Washington. It has previously been found in Oregon and California.   One of our most significant discoveries last year was the accidental introduction of Orasema minutissima to the island of Hawai'i . As a potential biological control agent against Wasmannia, this is an important find. We have found it in the early stages of spread, which allows for the documentation of its spread and impact on the ant. A survey in spring 2022 showed that the wasp has spread around the entire island of Hawai'i, but does not yet occur on the island of Oahu or Maui (and likely not on any of the other Hawaiian islands).   We continue to work on a phylogeny of all Chalcidoidea. We have one publication in press that revises the family group classification of Chalcidoidea, and another publication in review that is a molecular phylogenetic analysis of the entire superfamily using Anchored Hybrid Enrichment Approaches and Ultraconserved elements. The associated book on the classification and biology of Chalcidoidea is in progress, with several of the chapters reviewed and accepted. A contract has been made for the book and we are aiming at submitting a draft in 2023.   We have also been funded for a survey of the insects of California. This is a multi-intitutional initiative to assess the diversity of insects in California and provide genetic COI barcodes for all species. The project was funded in October through the California Institute of Biodiversity.   For Vincetoxicum sp. in France, Ailanthus altissima in France, Dittrichia graveolens in France, Italy and Cyprus, and Ventenata dubia in France. 100% completed for Vincetoxicum sp. survey, 7-day survey in France 100% for Pyrrhalta viburni with 12 days total in Sweden and Finland 100% for Plutella xylostella with 10 days in France. 100% completed for the Ailanthus survey, 20 days in France 100% for Dittrichia graveolens with 15 days in France, Cyprus, 70% for Bagrada hilaris with 20 days in Italy, South Africa, Malta, Cyprus 50% for Phytomyza gymnostoma with 5 days in France 30% completed for the Ventenata with 10 days in France and Slovakia -Ventenata dubia, Taeniatherum caput-medusae: additional exploration in Europe needed (Greece) -Bagrada hilaris: additional exploration in Africa needed -Brassica tournefortii (Sahara mustard), exploration needed in Maghreb countries and the Middle East   Surveyed for natural enemies of  Bagrada hilaris in South africa, Malta and Cyprus), Pyrrhalta viburni in northern Europe, Phytomyza gymnostoma in France, Plutella xylostella in France.   In collaboration with Dr. Hogg and SWD SCRI team members, we have surveyed northern, interior and central California sites for the larval and pupal parasitoids attacking the spotted wing drosophila.   In collaboration with Dr. Lara and brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) SCRI team members, we have surveyed San Joaquin Valley sites for the egg parasitoids attacking the brown marmorated stinkbug. A better understanding of abiotic impacts on BMSB and its natural enemies is needed.   Objective 1b.  Conduct foreign exploration and ecological studies in native range of pest.   Megathyrsus maximus, Guineagrass:  Recent molecular work identified the origin of the invasive TX Guineagrass as Durban, South Africa.  Recent exploration near Durban discovered two promising candidate agents, one of stem-galling Eurytomidae wasp, Tetramesa sp. nov. and crown-galling Ceccidomyidae midge. Preliminary host range testing is underway with collaborators at University of Texas – Austin and Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa.    Cattle Fever Ticks: Intensive exploration for parasitoids of cattle fever ticks, Rhipicephalus microplus and Rhipicephalus annulatus is underway in Australia (USDA/CSIRO Australian Biological Control Laboratory, Brisbane), France (EBCL, Montpellier, France), Italy (BBCA, Rome), and Vietnam (NIVR, Hanoi). DNA evidence shows the presence of parasitoids (Ixodiphagus spp.). Future work will focus on rearing Ixodiphagus spp. from nymphs and larvae of cattle fever ticks.   The University of Idaho conducted host selection experiments with two biological control agent candidate species of dyer’s woad (Isatis tinctoria), the seed-feeding weevil Ceutorhynchus peyerimhoffi and the root-crown weevil Ceutorhynchus rusticus. We tested female weevil responses to visual and olfactory plant cues of nontarget plant species. We found that C. rusticus preferred dyer’s woad over all nontarget plant species when visual and olfactory plant cues were offered simultaneously to weevils. C. peyerimhoffi was repelled by visual plant cues of a few critical nontarget plant species. Data for both weevils are complimenting release petitions to be submitted in 2023.          Philornis downsi (Diptera: Muscidae), invasive parasite of endemic birds in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Continued in-field specificity studies of 2 parasitoid species: Conura annulifera (Hym.: Chalcididae) and Trichopria sp. (Hym.: Diapriidae) in mainland Ecuador.  These studies continue to show high levels of specificity.   Several natural enemies have been discovered on cheatgrass and medusahead. Attack rates by resident parasitoids on naturally laid eggs of bagrada bug, Bagrada hilaris, were assessed at five sites in north-central California from July to October 2022. The adventive egg parasitoid Gryon aetherium was present at all sites, and emerged from eggs collected from soil, where most bagrada bug eggs are laid.   A survey of the big island of Hawai'i, Maui and Oahu was undertaken to assess the distribution and impact of the new parasitic wasp Orasema minutissima (Hymenoptera Eucharitidae) on its host the Little Fire Ant (LFA). The wasp is widespread and common on the big island but was not found on the other two islands.   Pyrrhalta viburni: 1) completed a study of factors affecting egg survivorship and overwintering success in its native range. 2) completed a study of host specificity and developmental ecology of Aprostocetus sp., a prospective biocontrol agent of P. viburni. Phytomyza gymnostoma: completed a study on the duration of development and pupation success depending on rearing conditions.   Dittrichia graveolens: completed diversity study of natural enemies in Cyprus Vincetoxicum: completed a study on longevity of the leaf feeder Chrysochus asclepiadeus Genista monspessulana: completed a study on open field dispersion of the French broom leaf feeder, psyllid Arytinnis hakani Ailanthus altissima: short open field host range test with the eriophyid mite, Aculus taihangensis 100% for P. viburni 100% for P. gymnostoma 100% for Vincetoxicum 100% for Dittrichia graveolens 100% for Genista monspessulana 100% for Ailanthus altissima -P. viburni: Life cycle of Aprostocetus sp. still not elucidated despite new data emanating from study. - Ailanthus altissima: additional non target species need to be tested   Research on the spotted wing drosophila was accomplished, however, not trips to So. Korea or China were made as these areas have been closed due to the pandemic.   In collaboration California Dept of Food and Agriculture (Charlie Pickett and Ricky Lara) and USDA Biological Control Laboratory (EBCL) in France (Rene Sforza, Marie Claude Bon) and their colleagues, we continued importation of Psyllaphaegus spp. attacking the olive psyllid. A permit for the wasp has been obtained from the USDA APHIS and releases will begin in 2024.   Foreign exploration for co-evolved natural enemies of Plutella xylostella, primarily larval and pupal parasitoids, began summer 2022. Work is being completed with support from the USDA European Biological Control Lab.   In May 2022, developing mummies of Psyllaephagus euphyllurae were collected from olive trees in southern Spain in order to supplement the mass rearing of this agent of Euphyllura olivina in the CDFA quarantine.     Objective 1c.  Determine systematics and biogeography of pests and natural enemies.   Discovery of the invasive Worm Slug, Boettgerilla pallens, for the first time in Washington State.   Philornis downsi (Diptera: Muscidae), invasive parasite of endemic birds in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Conducted description of Trichopria sp. for designation of new species name.   Three new species of natural enemies have been described on cheatgrass (2) and medusahead (1).   Research continued for parasites of the imported fire ant (Solenopsis) in South America and of the Little Fire Ant (Wasmannia) in the Caribbean and Central America. We are working with an Argentinian researcher on the molecular and morphological recognition of ants attacking the Solenopsis saevissima complex, which includes the fire ant. Our current research is focused on the population genetics of the eucharitid and LFA to determine the genetic structure of the two species on the main island and try to determine the points of origin for both species. This will be instrumental in determining future exports of the wasp to other Pacific Islands for biological control of LFA.   Research continued for a new program on the genus Encarsia, which are aphelinid parasitoids of armored scales and whiteflies. The initial objectives are a revision of the Encarsia strenua species group and a molecular phyogeny of the entire genus. This research is being conducted by a graduate student (Robert Kresslein).   Research is underway on developing a molecular phylogeny for the egg-parasitic Mymaridae by a relatively new graduate student (Krissy Dominguez). Her research is utilizing three different molecular approaches to look at congruence of results, and ultimately the proposal of a new classification for the group.   Work continued on a National Science Foundation grant to revise the classification of the entire superfamily Chalcidoidea. This is a massive undertaking that involves molecular, morphological and bioinformatic approaches to resolve the relationships of the superfamily, and to disseminate information on the group through electronic resources and a new book that outlines the classification and biology of the group. Members of this superfamily are among the most important natural and introduced control agents of other pest insects, and this will form a foundation for all future studies on the group. One paper is in press and another under review. We are continuing to develop a new database to house all of the taxonomic and biological information on the superfamily in TaxonWorks, which is based on a migration of data from the Universal Chalcidoidea Database. This system manages data for more than 30,000 taxonomic names and over 50,000 literature references, including information on their hosts and distributions.   Regular identifications of parasitoids that are directly related to biological projects worldwide occurred in 2022.   More than 1000 specimens of Aphelinidae and other Chalcidoidea were curated and added to the Entomology Research Museum collection of parasitic Hymenoptera.   Heraty et al. continues to work with researchers in Argentina to revise species that are parasitoids of Solenopsis ants. Javier Torréns is working on a revision of the Orasema susanae species group. There are many different research areas in progress, especially on Aphelinidae, Eucharitidae and Mymaridae.   Work is being done with USDA taxonomist (Mathew Buffington) and research entomologist (Keith Hopper) and Italian taxonomists (Emilio Guerrieri and Massimo Giorgini) on the description of Drosophila suzukii parasitoids Asobara spp. (Braconidae), Leptopilina japonica and, in particular, Ganaspis brasiliensis (Figitidae).   Work is being done with UC Riverside taxonomist (Serguei Triapitsyn) on the description of Anagrus spp. collected in vineyards.     Objective 1d.  Determine environmental safety of exotic candidates prior to release.   Cattle Fever Ticks: The volatiles from the most common local native south Texas tick species have been collected to use in choice and no choice tests for the tick parasitoids.   Rush skeletonweed: Oporopsamma wertheimsteini was received from the BBCA and overseas cooperators in August 2022. One hundred and six adults emerged from feeding tubes. Adults were placed in oviposition tubes and eggs were harvested.  Larvae are currently being used for continued impact studies on non-target plants and to maintain a rearing colony.   The host ranges of three malacopathogenic nematodes have been tested in laboratory trials. Thus far, the nematodes have been tested on three native, non-target gastropod species.   Philornis downsi (Diptera: Muscidae), invasive parasite of endemic birds in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. In addition to field studies described above we conducted habitat specificity tests in the laboratory of C. annulifera and Trichopria sp.   Preliminary host-specificity testing has been performed on a mite infesting medusahead. Host specificity testing continued of the egg parasitoid Gryon aetherium, a candidate biological control agent for bagrada bug, Bagrada hilaris. Results of choice tests showed that G. aetherium will attack eggs of two native stinkbug species, but that it prefers bagrada bug eggs.   In collaboration with researchers at USDA (Kim Hoelmer and Xingeng Wang), CABI (Marc Kenis and colleagues), Oregon State University (Vaughn Walton), and Canada (Paul Abram and company) and colleagues in China and South Korea, we imported 8 parasitoid species that attack the spotted wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii). These parasitoids included at least three larval parasitoids Asobara japonica (Braconidae), Leptopilina japonica and Ganaspis brasiliensis (Figitidae). This material was studied in Quarantine and release permits were developed for Ganaspis brasiliensis. Currently, studies are underway to determine potential species or strain differences among Gb populations.   Objective 1e.  Release, establish and redistribute natural enemies.   Many releases and redistributions of natural enemies (millions) were carried out against pests in 2022.   The rhino beetles invading Guam (2007), Hawaii (2013), Papua New Guinea (2015), and Solomon Islands (2015) are genetically different from other populations off this pest, are resistant to Oryctes nudivirus, the biocontrol agent of choice for this species, and behave differently. For these reasons, they are being referred to as the "the Guam Biotype" CRB-G.  Ongoing testing of 30 O. nudivirus strains collected from the Philippines in 2017 have revealed a single strain that showed virulence to CRB-G.  This strain was purified by Sean Marshal in New Zealand, and was subsequently sent to Guam where A. Moore released it into the field during the Fall of 2017 using infected CRB as vectors.  Results of releases of this strain of Oryctes nudivirus on Guam have revealed no virulence against CRB. Further research will be conducted to identify collected and identify additional OrNV virus strains that might prove lethal to the Guam CRB-G biotype.  Foreign exploration for OrNV isolates pathogenic to CRB-G may occur in 2023.  M. majus will continue to be spread and by infested CRB throughout Guam and the impact monitored.   Prior to first detection of Aulacaspis yasumatsui on Guam during 2003, the endemic plant, Cycas micronesica, was the most abundant tree in Guam’s forests. To date, more than 90% of these plants have been killed by CAS resulting in C. micronesica being added to the US Threatened and Endangered Species list. Currently, there is no recovery taking place on Guam because all seeds and seedlings are being killed by CAS. During 2022, there was renewed interest in CAS biocontrol.   During March, the US Fish and Wildlife Service funded a consulting trip to Guam by Dr. Ron Cave, University of Florida. During the trip Dr. Cave presented a seminar on CAS biocontrol [3], met with stakeholders, visited field sites. Following the trip, Dr. Cave delivered a trip report complete with recommendations for future work on CAS biocontrol [4].   Dr. Cave collected 4 or 5 unidentified coccinellid species associated with CAS in addition to Rhizobius lophanthae which is well established on Guam since introduction in 2005. An additional unidentified coccinellid species feeding on CAS was discovered by the Guam Plant Extinction Prevention Program shortly after Dr. Cave’s trip.   At the start of the CAS infestation on Guam, conservation plots for C micronesica were established on Tinian Island, which was free of CAS. Unfortunately, CAS was detected in these plots about three years ago and many plants have been killed. Examination of leaf samples and yellow sticky traps from these plots indicated that no biocontrol agents were present. Direct observation during a trip to Tinian by Moore in October failed to detect any CAS biocontrol agents on Tinian. Further research will be conducted to assess the extent of control of ACS due to introduced predators, Rhizobius lophanthae, and parasitoids, Arhenophagus sp.  Other biocontrol agents suitable for introduction to Guam will be investigated.   Russian knapweed:  Galls of Aulacidea acroptilonica were collected from a Russian knapweed site in Broadwater Co., MT in April 2022. Approximately 35,000 adult wasps were reared from the galls and consigned to cooperators in Petroleum and Powell Counties (weed districts), Fish, Wildlife & Parks - Havre, and the Ft, Belknap Reservation.    Hoary cress:  We are currently rearing two colonies of the gall mite, Aceria drabae: one from Bulgaria collected by the BBCA in 2016 (supplement in 2018), and a second colony from Trygona, Greece (2021) which is our primary source of mites for expanded releases in autumn 2022 and spring 2023.   Five releases of the mite were made in Montana in May and June, 2022.  Releases were made in Chouteau, Fergus, Lewis & Clark, and Powell (2 releases) Counties. Galls were found at all releases except Powell Co. Mites were also consigned to cooperators in Colorado, Idaho and Wyoming.   Four previous releases were monitored in 2022. At all sites were observed increases in infested stems and A. draba gall numbers; with some stunting of plants.  At our original release site located in Broadwater Co. we observed over 6,121 total infested stems (up from 1,219 in 2021).  Gallatin Co. - A total of 1,283 stems were infested. Infested patches observed in 2021 consolidated into a single patch. Within the patch many plants were stunted.  Lake Co - A total of 924 infested stems were observed. Four plots were established in 2021 and in two plots 90-95% of hoary cress plants were infested, and many were stunted (< 10 cm in height) with few seed pods. Lewis & Clark Co. - In 2022 we observed eight infested stems at or near plants inoculated in 2021 (no galls were observed that season).   The shoot tip-galling arundo wasp Tetramesa romana, over 12,000 adult females of which were released widely from 2017-2020 in the Central Valley of northern California, was confirmed as established at five sites.   The rhizome- and shoot-feeding arundo armored scale Rhizaspidiotus donacis, over 1,000 adult females of which were released widely from 2017-2020 in the Central Valley of northern California, was confirmed as established at seven sites.   The shoot tip-galling fly Parafreutreta regalis, over 7,000 adults of which were released from Humboldt County to San Diego County along the California coast from 2017-2020, was confirmed as established at 10 sites.   The leaf-feeding planthopper Megamelus scutellaris, 490,000 of which were released in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta of northern California from 2017-2020, was confirmed as established at three sites in the Delta.    The yellow starthistle rosette weevil, Ceratapion basicorne, has been released at three sites in California since 2020, but establishment is not yet certain.   1,300 individuals of the gorse thrips Sericothrips staphylinus were released between six sites in coastal regions of northern California, with no confirmed establishment to date.   A small population of the medusahead mite was found in NE California. Collection of additional mites from this population and from other medusahead invasions in other states could enable the redistribution of this mite within those states.   Approximately 2,000 Ganaspis brasiliensis, an Asian parasitoid of spotted wing drosophila that was permitted for release in 2021, were released over seven release dates in summer and fall 2022 into an organic raspberry field in Watsonville, CA.   NM was included in a special research release permit, led by the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Palisade insectary, for Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) rust, Puccinia punctiformis.  As APHIS works with the EPA to clarify permitting issues we had no establishment from releases made in fall 2021. We will continue to evaluate establishment in spring 2023. Aulacidea acroptilonica populations increased to very large numbers in our two main insectaries in NM.  Incredible increases continue after three years in established sites. Several thousand Aulacidea galls were collected from insectaries to provide insects for new sites in April 2022   Jaapiella ivannikova only established in collectable numbers in northwestern NM. Most other populations are very small. Drought conditions significantly reduced gall numbers throughout the state. We need to train local land managers to collect and redistribute Aulacidea to new locations. We will continue to evaluate establishment in spring 2023.   Mecinus janthiniformis has established on the largest population of Dalmatian toadflax (DTF) in NM. The beetles are well established and are causing visible damage to the DTF with numerous adult beetles feeding on the plants and within the stems.  The southernmost population of DTF in NM (probably in the US) has not expanded much. No new releases were made in 2022.   No apparent establishment of Mecinus janthinus on yellow toadflax (YTF); however, drought, fire, and subsequent flooding may have had a profound impact. We released 200 beetles at each of 6 new sites in Colfax (3 sites), Taos (2 sites), Rio Arriba (1 site) counties on relatively small populations of YTF. Cooperators are looking for any new populations for further release. We will evaluate establishment in spring 2023.   NMSU continues monitoring and redistributing Aphthona spp. and Oberea erythrocephala from established sites in New Mexico in 2022. Aphthona beetles have been released on all known populations (>0.2ha) of LS in New Mexico. Oberea is released at sites with at least 2 ha of LS. Cooperators are looking for any new populations for further release.   In July of 2022, a starter population of 20 female Ganaspis brasiliensis, approx. 20 males, and 12 parasitoid-infested blueberries were obtained from USDA ARS Corvallis. As of December 2022, 1326 G. brasiliensis were released by ODA at three field sites in Marion and Polk county.   ODA continued to mass-rear Trissolcus japonicus for redistribution across Oregon. In 2022, 19,241 adult T. japonicus were released across Oregon, from Washington county to Jackson County.   The adventive egg parasitoid Trissolcus japonicus is being lab-reared and redistributed in California for better management of invasive Halyomorpha halys populations.   The first release of the newly permitted Euphyllura olivina parasitoid, Psyllaephagus euphyllurae, were made in Carmel, CA in June 2022.   The adventive Bagrada hilaris egg parasitoid, Gryon aetherium, is being lab-reared and released in areas with high populations of Bagrada hilaris during the late fall of 2022.   Releases of the knotweed psyllid Aphalara itadori, were made in Humboldt County during the summer of 2022 and monitored post-release. Establishment not yet recorded.   The Russian knapweed gall wasp (Aulacidea acroptilonica) and gall midge (Jaapiella ivannikova) were both released in Ventura County in the fall of 2022 and found to have established.     Objective 1f.  Evaluate natural enemy efficacy and study ecological/physiological basis for interactions.   Lethality of three malacopathogenic nematode species has been demonstrated against a number of invasive gastropods in both laboratory assays and microcosm studies.   Mites were observed migrating to seeds of senescing medusahead plants, suggesting possible effects of mites on seed germination.   Tests were conducted to determine whether two resident parasitoids in California (the adventive Gryon aetherium and the native Ooencyrtus californicus) are able to locate and attack bagrada bug eggs in the soil, where the bug lays most of its eggs. Gryon aetherium was able to parasitize naturally buried eggs, while O. californicus was not.   <ol start="2022"> <li>Miller continued to survey invasive ants on the islands of Guam, Saipan, Tinian, and Rota in the Mariana Islands during 2022. This activity is part of an ongoing USDA-APHIS-CAPS funded project on the surveillance of Wasmannia auropunctata and Solenopsis invicta on Guam and the CNMI. A related study seeks to describe attendance behavior of Guam’s invasive ants towards aphids, scales and mealybugs commonly encountered in the Marianas, and the effects this might have on biological control agents against hemipteran plant pests. This project is ongoing due to the continued threat of new invasive ants arriving into the islands of Micronesia. </li> </ol>   In collaboration USDA ARS (Xingeng Wang) California Dept of Food and Agriculture (Charlie Pickett and Ricky Lara) and USDA Biological Control Laboratory (EBCL) in France (Marie Claude Bon) and their colleagues, we are continuing our evaluation of California releases of P. lounsburyi against the olive fruit fly.   Ganaspis brasiliensis is being released across the US and Canada to control the spotted wing drosophila. Along with colleagues that form the USDA SCRI and OREI teams, we are evaluating the establishment and impact of this parasitoid in different regions and within different ecozones.   OSU, WSU, USDA-ARS, CDFA, UC: Monitoring of sites in Oregon following release of Ganaspis brasiliensis against SWD. Controlled studies on G. brasiliensis in collaboration (Marica Scala, Vaughn Walton, Jana Lee and Fondazione Edmund Mach (Northern Italy). Release and recovery of Trissolcus japonicus in multiple sites across Oregon to monitor establishment and impact on Halyopmorpha halys populations. Research intosublethal effects of pesticides on T. japonicus. (Claire Donahoo, Jalal Fouani, Nik Wiman)   Objective 2: Conserve Natural Enemies to Increase Biological Control of Target Pests.   Objective 2a.  Characterize and identify pest and natural enemy communities and their interactions.   UC Riverside integrated surveys, field studies and molecular approaches to evaluate trophic dynamics and assess the strength of predation in food webs. We have been monitoring populations of social yellowjackets (Vespula pensylvanica) in California aiming to understand the factors driving the increasing incidence of overwintering and multi-year nesting in this species. This wasp is a voracious arthropod predator and opportunistic scavenger known to consume important pests (e.g. diversity of aphid, psyllid and microlepidopteran species) as well as pollinator taxa. We tracked the activity and longevity of >120 nests within 1 km of UCR citrus orchards. We characterized how patterns of seasonality and peak activity have shifted when compared to records from 20 years ago, and quantified spatial and temporal patterns in nest survivorship (#1). Colonies that overwinter and persist for multiple years continue to produce workers and brood throughout the year. Ongoing efforts aim to quantify the predation pressure of this yellowjacket on local pest populations during the traditional peak season (late summer/early fall) and during the overwintering period (winter/early spring).   In a series of collaborative projects, UC Riverside has led the diet analysis of avian predators to assess the degree to which these species provide pest control services (e.g., consume pest arthropods). We have been working in a variety of systems in California, including strawberry and broccoli, and are starting a new project in vineyards. In strawberry, we discovered that pests were most likely to be consumed by birds on diversified farms. Pest consumption by birds increased significantly when there was little semi-natural or natural area near the fields (#2). In broccoli, pest control services were highly contextual, variable on species identity and community diversity (#3), with additional lines of evidence that birds may provide little to no pest control in many broccoli systems (#4). We are continuing to delve into these food web data to assess how local scale management may further influence bird pest control services. In addition, we are starting a new project quantifying the impacts of adding blue bird boxes to California vineyards on bluebird consumption of vineyard pests.   Urban agriculture is an increasingly popular and important contribution to local food systems. Practitioners require production information that is tailored to the type of growing and unique environments in which they operate. Unfortunately, we don’t have a solid understanding of these environments, including potential heat island effects on crop growth and insect communities. Therefore, we have made it a priority to identify the community composition of insect populations in urban food systems that can form the foundation of Urban Ag IPM programs and future research. The work that I will be sharing is the result of a study carried out as part of a senior thesis project examining arthropod diversity, feeding guild and predation services within urban gardens across two different counties in central Indiana.   The study occurred at 10 urban gardens/farms in the summer of 2021. The size of the farms ranged from 600-10,000 sq. feet and produced a diversity of crops in or near a city center. Active and passive sampling as well as visual observations were made at each location in June, July and August. An inventory of the plant types and density was recorded at each location, as well as growing practices and ground cover (plastic mulch, wood chips, etc.). The goal of this work was to identify and quantify arthropods encountered at each location and begin to develop potential food webs by characterizing the organisms based on taxonomic identification as well as feeding guild association. Sentinel prey items were also deployed to measure pest control services across space and time.   Some of the most interesting findings from this study revealed that despite location, herbivores were most abundant on zucchini crops and omnivores most abundant on melon; there were no differences in predator abundance during visual surveys among any of the crop types. The highest diversity of arthropods was seen through visual surveys at a garden site in Montgomery County and the lowest diversity recorded in pitfall traps collected at a site in Tippecanoe County. The sentinel prey experiments showed that aphid parasitism peaked during the month of August. We did not detect Manduca sexta parasitoids, but rather attribute their predation to direct consumption. We recorded predation rates of Helicoverpa zea eggs ranging from 43-73% over a 48-hr period.   This work continues to identify the species collected and examine abiotic and biotic site characteristics that may help explain differences in the community composition that were observed. Our future work will aim to examine the most abundant herbivores and determine their phenology and natural enemies present in the urban landscape. The original findings will be published in 2023 and future work will build off of the findings.   The UC Davis lab group has now surveyed spider communities across three vineyards in the Napa Valley on grape vines and surrounding vegetation. The spiders have been identified, and we are now writing up a publication.   We described a new species of nematode that infects tarantulas and we are currently evaluating its usefulness against insect pests. We are also currently describing a new species of entomopathogenic nematode in the genus Steinernema and we are studying its potential usefulness against insect pests.   For the soybean aphid, Aphis glycines, in Minnesota, Cottony Cushion Scale, Icerya purchasi in Sicily, Italy.Determined alternative hosts for A. glycines parasitoid Aphelinus certus. Determine native hosts for I. purchasi and the predator Novius (= Rodolia) cardinalis   For Tamarix sp., we demonstrated that hybridization among Diorhabda biological control agents is common in areas of overlap, and that host use of hybrids beetles is similar to that of the parental species.   Dominguez (graduate student) is addressing relationships in the Gonatocerus species group, which include important egg parasitoids of sharpshooters in California. This will be the first molecular analysis of the group and will try to address some recent controversial taxonomic changes that have been made at the genus level.   Conducted phylogenetic analysis, species delineation and taxonomic revision of the mite Aculus mosoniensis (Acari: Eriophyididae) associated with tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) in Europe with experts in the taxonomy of eriophyid mites in Italy and Serbia and our cooperator at BBCA in Italy, leading to the synonymy of Aculus mosoniensis with Aculops taihangensis. Conducted an integrative taxonomic inventory of larval parasitoids of Phytomyza gymnostoma (Diptera: Agromyzidae), one of the most important Allium (garlic, leek and onion) pests, mostly belonging to 8 species in the genus Miscogaster and in the genus Pseudopezomachus. Conducted a phylogeography study of Bagrada hilaris (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) Conducted an integrative taxonomic inventory of hard ticks in Vietnam and the Balkans including the cattle fever ticks (Rhipicephalus microplus), (formerly Boophilus microplus), and (Rhipicephalus annulatus), (formerly Boophilus annulatus), (Arachnida: Ixodidae) and detection of potential parasitoids parasitizing these hard ticks. Pyrrhalta viburni: evaluation and comparison of parasitism rates in Northern and Western Europe. Plutella xylostella: identification of the assemblage of parasitoids present in France (>10 species).    Conducted an integrative taxonomic inventory of foliage feeder moths (Lepidoptera) on stinkwort (Dittrichia graveolens) (Asteraceae) in Greece, Cyprus and southern France, mostly belonging to four families i.e. Noctuidae, Pyralidae, Tortricidae and Geometridae Resolved the taxonomic status of the egg parasitoid of Bagrada hilaris, Gryon aetherium (formerly Gryon gonikopalense) (Hymenoptera, Scelionidae) 100% for P. viburni 100% for Aculus 100% for Bagrada hilaris 100% for Gryon aetherium 90% for P. xylostella 50% for P. gymnostoma 50% for Miscogaster and Pseudopezomachus. 50% for hard ticks 50% for of foliage feeder moths on stinkwort Sampling of parasitized natural populations of hard ticks is still ongoing across the Balkans and Vietnam and detection of potential hymenopteran parasitoids is a continued effort. Sampling of the natural enemy assemblage of stinkwort and the allium leaf miner is still ongoing across their Eurasian native range and taxonomic investigation is a continued effort Sampling of the enemy assemblage of Sahara mustard   In collaboration with UC Riverside’s Houston Wilson, we are investigating the use of a unique irrigation system in pistachio to help trap and monitor stink bugs as well as increase the activity of their natural enemies.   Feeding preference study found that Geocoris punctipes consumed greater Myzus. persicae that Lygus spp. (Alexander Butcher, Silvia Rondon)   Objective 2b.  Identify and assess factors potentially disruptive to biological control.   UC Davis has worked to understand how (i) cannibalism, and (ii) increasing the size of monocultural crop fields may limit the efficacy of biological control.  I have also worked to understand how the omnivorous biocontrol agent Forficula Auricularia (the European earwig) may also generate crop damage by functioning as an herbivore.   UC Riverside has led the diet analysis of avian predators to assess the degree to which these species potentially disrupt pest control via the consumption of natural enemies and/or biocontrol agents. In strawberry, we found that natural enemies were most likely to be consumed by birds on diversified farms (#2). In addition, we are starting a new project quantifying the impacts of adding blue bird boxes to California vineyards on bluebird consumption of biocontrol agents and natural enemies of vineyard pests.   Laboratory studies showed that the most commonly used molluscicide active ingredients (metaldehyde, iron phosphate and sodium ferric EDTA) do not impact the survival of three malacopathogenic nematode species in laboratory assays.    In our alfalfa-alfalfa weevil study system, data collection on hyperparasitoids of parasitoid Bathyplectes curculionis occurred from wasp cocoons collected in producer fields in Wyoming and Montana. This is the third year of data collection for the hyperparasitoid project.   The UC Davis lab is assessing the extent to which different plant species support spiders based on their architecture. Some plant species (notably oaks) appear to support more spider diversity and a consistent community of spiders across vineyards. The extent to which different spider species support biological control through feeding is a subject of a gut content analysis that is currently underway.   For the soybean aphid, Aphis glycines, in Minnesota. determined the effect of tillage on overwintering on soybean aphid parasitoid, Aphelinus certus, as well as hyperparasitoids that attack it.   Dalmatian and yellow toadflax, Linaria dalmatica and L. vulgaris, are exotic weeds in North America, and their classical biological control has been improved by the establishment of seed-feeding (Rhinusa antirrhini) and stem-mining (Mecinus janthinus and Mecinus janthiniformis) weevils.  We evaluated the complex of hymenopteran parasitoids attacking these weevils in Colorado. Ten species were identified of the genera Neocatolaccus, Eurytoma, Pteromalus, Brasema, Telenomus and Bracon. Neocatolaccus tylodermae was the most abundant parasitoid of Mecinus janthinus, M. janthiniformis and Rhinusa antirrhini. This is the first report of N. tylodermae attacking the weevil genera Mecinus and Rhinusa feeding on the genus Linaria. A next useful step would be to understand the degree to which parasitism limits the efficacy of these weed biocontrol agents   We have a large study looking at pesticides used in vineyards, and the focus has been on the application of materials that do not disrupt natural enemies.   Within this sub-objective, we sought to characterize the behavioral responses of insect vectors (aphids) to chemical cues left behind on plants by biological control agents (in this case, a predatory lady beetle) and by non-predatory insects (fruit flies). We identified chemical constituents of lady beetle “footprints” that we determined elicit behavioral dispersal responses in the aphid prey. We also conducted experiments to quantify the impacts of aphid responses to predator footprints on transmission of a plant virus. We found that aphids respond to even low levels of footprint deposition with increased dispersal, but that this did not translate into increased transmission of a viral pathogen. Our results suggest that biological control agents may further disrupt prey feeding activities (causing expenditure of energy on foraging) just through deposition of chemical cues. We still need to identify a few of the more difficult compounds in the footprint blend, particularly three alkenes. We have carried out some chemical analytical approaches to complete this and are analyzing the data. We also need to complete writing up the manuscript on this work and submit it for publication.   For Russian knapweed in NM, drought seems to be an important limiting factor for the successful expansion of the gall midge, Jaapiella ivannikovi. We followed populations of gall midges through an extended drought during 2018 and 2021. In 2017, thousands of galls were present in NM insectaries and by the end of 2021 populations were difficult to find. We will no longer attempt redistribution of Jaapiella     Objective 2c.  Implement and evaluate habitat modification, horticultural practices, and pest suppression tactics to conserve natural enemy activity.   Alfalfa weevil is a problematic insect pest in alfalfa, even with many past releases of biological control agents in the mid to late 1900's. Our work examines drivers and limitations of parasitoid wasps of alfalfa weevil, with the long-term goal of improving biological control efficacy. In this project period, we published past work (Pellissier et al. 2022) on how local, landscape, and management factors affect alfalfa weevil and biocontrol agent Bathyplectes curculionis. We also published on work where we documented which wasp families visited specialty cut flowers in a diversified farm setting in Wyoming (Nobes et al. 2022).   The UC Davis lab assessed to what extent different plant species support spider communities. This work will help support efforts to bring plants into vineyards that will aid in conservation biological control.   For the soybean aphid, Aphis glycines, in Minnesota lab studies were conducted to evaluate potential effect of no-till practices on parasitoid overwintering   From late spring to fall 2022 spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii, and its natural enemies were sampled in cane berry fields and neighboring semi-natural habitat containing uncultivated blackberry (Rubus spp.), a widespread host of D. suzukii.   Within this sub-objective, we have been exploring use of elicitors that prime plant defenses against pests and insect-transmitted pathogens. These include chemical mimics of plant or pathogen-produced compounds (generally commercially available) and also biologically active substrates derived from the activities of insect decomposers (frass from rearing black soldier flies on food waste). Most of our current work is focusing on these biologically active substrates, which are enriched in compounds (e.g., chitin/chitosan) that promote populations of microbes that activate plant defenses when present in the rhizosphere. In the project period, we carried out experiments to evaluate effects of these substrates on plant growth and beneficial soil microbial communities.Samples from experiments completed in the prior project period are stored. We still need to extract DNA from these samples and perform amplicon sequencing to characterize the microbial communities (fungal and bacterial). Experiments evaluating additional substrates (ground up black soldier fly larvae and adults) are ongoing.   Objective 3:  Augment Natural Enemies to Increase Biological Control Efficacy.   Objective 3a.  Assess biological characteristics of natural enemies.   Cattle Fever Ticks:  The south Texas native entomopathogenic nematode, Steinernema riobrave has been tested in lab, barn, and field trials.  This species shows excellent potential for augmentative biological control against all life stages cattle fever ticks, including applications to infested cattle and wildlife.  Field testing for application to pastures to control questing cattle fever tick larvae is in progress.   We are currently studying the ability of EPNs to tolerate cardenolide toxins and the potential value of this trait in biological control.   Apparently reproductive populations of medusahead mites have been observed on plants in the field in all seasons (including under snow in winter), suggesting the absence of deutogyny.   For Russian knapweed in NM, new Aulacidea galls appearing late in the season, so we initiated an experiment to see if there is a second generation in the NM.  Individual plants were tagged and all galls on each plant were marked with a spot of paint. Every two weeks the plants were checked for any new galls and these were marked with a different color of paint.  At the end of the season marked galls were dissected to determine the phenology of the insects.  Results showed that Aulacidea do have one generation with new galls being produced from April to July.      Objective 3b.  Develop procedures for rearing, storing, quality control and release of natural enemies, and conduct experimental releases to assess feasibility.   Bactrocera oleae: completed a study demonstrating the value of augmentoria (singular: augmentorium) to augment parasitoid densities in the field and enhance pest control. Bactrocera oleae: Genome sequencing and analysis of a new species of Serratia sp. isolated from the biocontrol agent Psyttalia lounsburyi and P. ponerophaga Genista monsspessulana: Evaluating the microbes associated to the plant feeder Lepidapion argentatum, especially potential plant pathogenic fungi. Retrospective risk assessment of the accidental introduction of Candidatus Liberibacter europeaus into New Zealand via a weed biocontrol agent (Arytainilla spartiophila) 100% for B. oleae (augmentoria) 100% for B. oleae (genome) 100% for Arytainilla spartiophila 50% for Lepidapion argentatum since material collection and microbial isolation have been performed. Identification of the microbial isolates of Lepidapion argentatum are still on going.   We have studied cold storage and mass production techniques of the Drosophila suzukii parasitoids Pachycrepoideus vindimiae (Pteromalidae), Trichopria drosophilae (Diapriidae) in order to improve mass production.   In NM, evaluating inundative “bioherbicide” releases against leafy spurge. How many insects are required for a specific patch of LS.   Research has been conducted to develop a new and efficient rearing system for the southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula (L.), and Trichopoda pennipes (Fab.) to enable the parasitoid to be used for augmentative biological control. Progress has been made on objective three to optimize T. pennipes mating and oviposition. Experiments were conducted effective colony size, duration of host exposure to the parasitoid, and optimum number of eggs per host to maximize the percentage parasitism. A research colony of 17-32 Trichopoda pennipes females was maintained that oviposited on 10 randomly selected fresh adult Nezara viridula. These females oviposited a mean of 8-9 eggs in 50 minutes. This optimum number of eggs per host resulted in a maximum of 63% parasitism (production of viable pupae). A greater degree of superparasitism decreased successful parasitism to 33%. Of 428 field-collected parasitized N. viridula, 52% had parasitoid eggs and 36% produced an adult, although about 4% of the hosts that did not have eggs also produced an adult. If a host had three eggs, 76% produced a parasitoid. Trichopoda pennipes is a koinobiont parasitoid that enables the host female to continue oviposition after it is parasitized. Females that produced a parasitoid lived for about 11 days, whereas unparasitized females lived for nearly 40 days. The average number of egg masses was reduced from 3 to 0.5 if a host female was parasitized.   Trichopoda pennipes parasitizes species in the families Pentatomidae and Coreidae, including several polyphagous pests. It is necessary to determine if parasitoids from one host species will effectively parasitize another target pest. Nezara viridula and the eastern leaffooted bug, Leptoglossus phyllopus, will be collected from grain sorghum and the squash bug, Anasa tristis from squash at the same farm and tested against conspecific and heterospecific hosts. Choice tests will be conducted to determine if the parasitoids from field-collected hosts prefer their source host and if the preferences persist after the host species are reared for one generation. If host preference occurs and persists, species-specific colonies will be required. In this case, host suitability will be conducted to support mass rearing. Hopefully, T. pennipes mass-reared on the pentatomid, N. viridula, will be effective in parasitizing the two coreid species and other pests in the two families.   Mass rearing protocols for Ganaspis brasiliensis, Drosolphila suzukii, Trissolcus japonicus and Halyomorpha halys have been developed and refined in 2022.   In 2021 we produced over 80,000 BMSB eggs, and reared approx. 20,000 T. japonicus (including non-released colony populations). In 2022, we reared over 19,000 T. japonicus from only 25,000 BMSB eggs. This dramatic increase in efficiency will be instrumental in growing our mass-rearing program in 2023 and beyond.    <ol start="23"> <li> brasiliensis mass-rearing optimization. What ratio of D. suzukii-infested blueberries to G. brasiliensis females is optimal for mass-rearing? We plan to answer this over winter 2022-23.</li> </ol>   . Objective 3c.  Implement augmentation programs and evaluate efficacy of natural enemies.   Many results have been reported under other objectives.  A few examples follow: Giant Reed: Methods for integration of established biological control agents of giant reed, Arundo donax and mechanical topping of the cane is in widespread implementation along the Rio Grande in Texas.  Using the large tractor mounted topping machines up to 350 river miles are being topped per year by the USDA-APHIS Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program.  Topping of the Arundo donax at 1 meter gives law enforcement clear visibility of the international border, stimulates the production of side shoots thereby increasing populations of the arundo wasp, Tetramesa romana, and allows for penetration of light to ground level which accelerates regrowth of native riparian vegetation.    The University of Idaho conducted a project evaluating at a large spatial scale classical biological control of Centaurea stoebe using root mining biological control agents. We found three root-mining biological control agents established and two of them, the moth Agapeta zoegana and the weevil Cyphocleonus achates widespread and equally abundant. While both root mining biological control agents impact aboveground weed growth, their overall abundance is too low to effectively control C. stoebe.           In collaboration with researchers at USDA (Brian Hogg), we have released two pupal parasitoids, Pachycrepoideus vindemiae (Pteromalidae) and Trichopria drosophilae (Diapriidae) near blue berry and strawberry fields to ‘inoculate’ these resident parasitoids before and after the harvest cycle. In summer 2022, 40,000 Aphala itadori, knotweed psyllid, were released at 26 field sites across Michigan on Japanese, Bohemian and Giant knotweeds. The releases are designed to test how release frequency - a single large versus two smaller releases – may impact establishment success.   The defoliating moth, Hypena opulenta was released against pale swallow-wort at 15 sites across Michigan. These releases test how the genetic background (inbred vs. outbred) of the biocontrol agent may impact establishment success and involved the release of 579 outbred, 538 Canadian origin and 372 inbred laboratory reared individuals.   The parasitoid Trissolcus japonicus was released (n= 5,500) at six sites across Michigan against the brown marmorated stink bug in summer 2022. Releases of 20,000 T. japonicus at 10 sites that took place in summer 2021 were monitored during 2022 to assess how landscape diversity may impact establishment success.   Establishment and impact of A. itadori was monitored through the summer. Psyllids were found until September in the field. Monitoring is needed next year to confirm overwintering success and detect any damage by the biocontrol agent.   Hypena opulenta establishment will be assessed by monitoring in summer 2024.   A field trial was established to assess the efficacy of different certified organic products for suppressing disease and thus bulb mite populations. The following products were tested: Rootshield plus WP and G, Zerotol, and TerraGrow. Two treatment methods were evaluated: corm dipping and soil drenching at planting. The incidence of disease and bulb mites will be quantified, and the indirect growth stimulation from the treatments will be assessed in terms of yield and corm size over time. This research will demonstrate that sometimes one must target a secondary organism for management to address an arthropod pest.   Evaluation of Aceria malherbae and Tyta luctuosa for Convolvulus arvensis in perennial cropping systems in Oregon (Jessica Green, OSU)   Objective 4:  Evaluate Environmental and Economic Impacts and Raise Public Awareness of Biological Control.   Objective 4a.  Evaluate the environmental and economic impacts of biological control agents.   Many results have been reported under other objectives.  Examples follow:   A widespread 10 year post-release evaluation of the Arundo donax biological control program along the Rio Grande of the arundo wasp, Tetramesa romana and the arundo scale, Rhizaspidiotus donacis found no evidence non-target impacts (see attached paper).   As part of UC Riverside’s quantification of pest predation, we also aim to assess the ecological and economic impacts of the predators. This involves quantifying response of prey populations (both target pest taxa and non-pest, native taxa) to predatory pressure in the field. In addition to quantifying correlations between pest and predator populations, we aim to evaluating predators’ contributions to ecosystem services and using genomic methods to identify cryptic trophic links in invaded food webs. These efforts aim to further our understanding of trophic dynamics in natural and agroecosystems in California and the Pacific. These efforts are ongoing.   The UC Davis lab is working directly with vineyard owners and managers in our surveys. These activities raise awareness of the importance of biological control in the wine-growing community in Napa Valley.    Developed benefit-framework to evaluate biological control interventions based on protection of native biodiversity   Russian knapweed is an economically important, non-native weed in Wyoming and throughout the western U.S.A. Unpalatable to cattle, poisonous to horses and forming large infestations on rangelands, Russian knapweed was targeted for biological control with the importation of a gall-forming fly (Jaapiella ivannikovi) originally from Uzbekistan. This research project examined population changes in both the fly and Russian knapweed at the first release site in Wyoming, with the goal of understanding the impacts of biological control of this problematic weed.   Population data has been collected over several years (2014-2018, 2021-2022) via surveys in established field plots. Based on anecdotal evidence, a key limitation for midge populations was hypothesized to be a lack of late-summer moisture. Data analyses indicated, however, that midge populations were positively correlated with winter and spring precipitation and not late-summer precipitation (as reported last year). More recent analyses indicate that Russian knapweed populations are also related to winter precipitation, with higher numbers of knapweed shoots following wet periods in October-May. Precipitation may therefore drive population abundance of both knapweed and the gall fly. Moreover, observed declines in Russian knapweed density following releases of the midge appears to reflect lower than average precipitation instead of effective biological control by the gall fly, which has also declined in abundance in recent surveys. Population dynamics of a second weed biological control agent, a gall-forming wasp (Aulacidea acroptilonica), have been studied for 3 years; more study is needed to identify patterns in the dynamics of Russian knapweed and the agent.   The establishment of Trissolcus japonicus and its impact on target Halyomorpha halys populations are being tracked at urban and agricultural field sites across various California counties with support from the University of California.   The establishment and spread of Gryon aetherium is being monitored in agricultural areas along with its impact on Bagrada hilaris populations.   Objective 4b.  Develop and implement outreach activities for biological control programs. Several classical weed biological control videos were produced by the University of Idaho and MIA Consulting and can be accessed by clicking <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KkONlsnG7ls&list=PLNQYloKArb2-YHzvBpc3jDHqlQ4AK9ahr&index=2&t=316s">here</a>. Maintained an Ass

Publications

2022 Publications   Abram, P. K., Wang, X.-G. Hueppelsheuser, T., Franklin, M. F., Daane, K. M., Lee, J. C., Lue, C.-H., Girod, P., Carrillo, J., Wong, W.H.L., Kula, R. R., Gates, M. W., Hogg, B. N., Moffat, C. E., Hoelmer, K. A., Sial, A. A. and Buffington, M. L. 2022. A coordinated sampling and identification methodology for larval parasitoids of spotted-wing drosophila. Journal of Economic Entomology 115(4): 922-942. doi: 10.1093/jee/toab237   Alred B*, N. Haan, D. A. Landis and M. Szűcs. 2022. Does the presence of the biological control agent, Hypena opulenta (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) on swallow-worts deter monarch oviposition? Environmental Entomology. 51:77-82  <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvab121">doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvab121</a> Alred B*, RA Hufbauer and M. Szűcs. 2022. Potential impact and phenology of the biological control agent, Hypena opulenta on Vincetoxicum nigrum in Michigan. Biocontrol Science and Technology doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2022.2040950 Barbar, Z., B. Parker & M. Skinner. 2022. Phytoseiidae (Acari: Mesostigmata) of Syria: new records and first description of the male of Eharius stathakisi Döker. Acarologia 62(1): 12-21. <a href="https://www1.montpellier.inrae.fr/CBGP/acarologia/article.php?id=4488">https://www1.montpellier.inrae.fr/CBGP/acarologia/article.php?id=4488</a>   Batista, M.C., G.E. Heimpel, M. Bulgarella & M. Venzon. 2022. Diet breadth of the aphid predator Chrysoperla rufilabris Burmeister (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae).  Bulletin of Entomological Research 112: 528-535.   Beers, E. H., Beal, D., Smytheman, P., Abram, R., Schmidt-Jeffris, R., Moretti, E., Daane, K. M., Looney, C., Lue, C.-H., Buffington, M. L. 2022 First records of adventive populations of the parasitoids Ganaspis brasiliensis and Leptopilina japonica in the United States. Journal of Hymenoptera Research. 91: 11–25. doi: 10.3897/jhr.91.82812   Bon, M.C., Kashefi, J., Guermache, F., Mediannikov, O. 2022. Molecular detection of wasps  parasitizing nymphal cattle fever ticks towards the study of temporal pattern of tick-parasitoid interaction. Proceedings of the 6th International Symposium on Biological Control of Arthropods. Donald C. Weber, Tara D. Gariepy, William R. Morrison III, editors. Online from British Columbia, Canada, March 15-17 and 22-24, 2022. 231 pp.  pages 5.6-5-9   Brito, A.G.V., J. A. Salas, G.E. Heimpel & M. Bulgarella. 2022. Use of artificial nest boxes by two species of small, arboreal mammals in Ecuadorian tropical dry forest.  Neotropical Biodiversity 8: 108-111.   Bulgarella, M., M.P. Lincango, P.L. Lahuatte, J.D. Oliver, A. Cahuana, I.E. Ramírez, R. Sage, A.J. Colwitz, D.A. Freund, J.R. Miksanek, R.D. Moon, C.E. Causton & G.E. Heimpel. 2022. Persistence of the invasive Darwin’s finch parasite Philornis downsi in the Galapagos Islands: an age-grading approach.  Scientific Reports 12: 2325.   Borowiec N & Sforza RFH (2022). Classical biological control. pp31-42. In "Extended Biocontrol. Eds: X. Fauvergue et al. Springer. 327p.   Burks, R., Dan Mitroiu, M., Fusu, L., Heraty, J.M., Jan&scaron;ta, P., Heydon, S., Dale-Skey Papilloud, N., Peters, R.S., Tselikh, E.V., Woolley, J.B., van Noort, S., Baur, H., Cruaud, A., Darling, D.C., Delvare, G., Gumovsky, A., Haas, M., Hanson, P., Krogmann, L., Rasplus, J.-Y. (in press) From hell’s heart I stab at thee! A determined approach towards a monophyletic Pteromalidae and reclassification of Chalcidoidea (Hymenoptera). Journal of Hymenoptera Research   Casiraghi,  A., J.S. Dregni, N.P. Hidalgo, J. Kaser, G.E. Heimpel, J. Selfa & M. Ferrer-Suay. 2022. Brachyptery analysis in Alloxysta (Hymenoptera: Figitidae): synonymy of A. curta as the brachypterous male of A. ramulifera in the Nearctic.  Proceedings of the Washington Entomological Society 124: 1-12.   Cave RD, Moore A. Biological control of cycad aulacaspis scale (webinar) [Internet]. 2022 Mar 8; University of Guam, Mangilao, Guam. Available from: <a href="https://aubreymoore.github.io/CAS-biocontrol-seminar/">https://aubreymoore.github.io/CAS-biocontrol-seminar/</a>   Cave RD. Report to the US Fish and Wildlife Service – Pacific Islands Division on a visit to Guam March 3–17, 2022:  Observations, assessment and recommendations for applied biological control of the cycad Aulacaspis scale [Internet]. University of Florida, Indian RiverResearch and Education Center, Ft. Pierce, Florida; 2022 p. 31. Available from: <a href="https://github.com/aubreymoore/CAS-biocontrol-seminar/raw/main/Cave-CAS-report-2022.pdf">https://github.com/aubreymoore/CAS-biocontrol-seminar/raw/main/Cave-CAS-report-2022.pdf</a>   Cave RD, Moore A, Wright MG. Biological Control of the Cycad Aulacaspis Scale, Aulacaspis yasumatsui. In: Contributions of Classical Biological Control to US Food Security, Forestry, and Biodiversity [Internet]. 2022. Available from: <a href="https://github.com/aubreymoore/CAS/raw/main/CAS_Biocontrol.pdf">https://github.com/aubreymoore/CAS/raw/main/CAS_Biocontrol.pdf</a>   Clark, EI, EV Bitume, DW Bean, AR Stahlke, PA Hohenlohe, RA Hufbauer. 2022. Evolution of life history and dispersal traits during the range expansion of a biological control agent. Evolutionary Applications. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/eva.13502">https://doi.org/10.1111/eva.13502</a>   Correa, M. C. G., Palero, F., Pacheco da Silva, V. C., Kaydan, M. B., Germain, J.-F., Abd-Rabou, S., Daane, K. M., Cocco, A., Poulin, E., and Malausa, T. 2022. Identifying cryptic species of Planococcus infesting vineyards to improve control efforts. Journal of Pest Science. doi.org/10.1007/s10340-022-01532-1   Cristofaro M, Sforza RFH, Roselli G. , Paolini A., Cemmi, S. Musmeci, G. Anfora, Valerio Mazzoni, Grodowitz M 2022. Sterile Insect Technique Applied to a Pentatomid Pest Species: Effects of Gamma Irradiation on the Longevity and Fertility of Bagrada hilaris Burmeister. subm. (to Insects on May 14th; resubm. July 10th; Accepted 27 August)   Cuny, M. A., la Forgia, D., Desurmont, G. A., Bustos‐Segura, C., Glauser, G., & Benrey, B. (2022). Top‐down cascading effects of seed‐feeding beetles and their parasitoids on plants and leaf herbivores. Functional Ecology.   Daane, K. M., da Silva, P. G., Stahl, J. M. Scaccini, D., and Wang, X.-G. 2022. Comparative life history parameters of three stink bug pest species. Environmental Entomology. 51(2): 430–439. doi: 10.1093/ee/nvac012   DaSilva A, Reddy AM, Pratt PD, Grewell BJ, Harms NE, Cibils-Stewart X, Cabrera Walsh G, Hernández MC, Faltlhauser A. Life history and host range of Sudauleutes bosqi, a biological control candidate for Ludwigia spp. in the U.S. Fl. Ent. 105: 243-249. https://doi.org/10.1653/024.105.0310   De Lillo, E., Marini, F., Cristofaro, M., Valenzano, D., Petanović, R., Vidović , B., Cvrković, T.,  Bon, M.C. 2022.  Integrative taxonomy and synonymization of Aculus mosoniensis (Acari: Eriophyidae), a potential biological control agent for tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima). Insects 2022, 13, 489.  <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/insects13050489">https://doi.org/10.3390/insects13050489</a>   Desurmont, G. A., Tannières, M., Roche, M., Blanchet, A., & Manoukis, N. C. (2022). Identifying an Optimal Screen Mesh to Enable Augmentorium-Based Enhanced Biological Control of the Olive Fruit Fly Bactrocera oleae (Diptera: Tephritidae) and the Mediterranean Fruit Fly Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae). Journal of Insect Science, 22(3), 11.   Dodge, C., Kaur, N., Frey, M., and Mc Donnell, R.J. (in press) First record of the invasive slug Boettgerilla pallens Simroth, 1912 (Boettgerillidae) in Washington, U.S.A. Bulletin of the American Malacological Society   Gaskin, J.F., Goolsby, J.A., Bon, M.C., Cristofaro, M., Calatayud, P.A. 2022.  Identifying the geographic origins of invasive Guineagrass in the USA using molecular data. Invasive Plant Science and Management. 1-14. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1017/inp.2022.7">https://doi.org/10.1017/inp.2022.7</a>   Gaskin, G. F., J. L. Littlefield, T. A. Rand, and N. M. West.  2022.  Variation in reproductive mode across the latitudinal range of invasive Russian knapweed, AoB PLANTS, Volume 14, Issue 4, August 2022, plac032, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/aobpla/plac032">https://doi.org/10.1093/aobpla/plac032</a>   Goolsby, J.A., C. R. Hathcock, A. T. Vacek, R. R. Kariyat, P. J. Moran and M. Martinez Jimenez.  2020. No evidence of non-target use of native or economic grasses and broadleaf plants by Arundo donax biological control agents. Biocontrol Science and Technology. 8: 795-805. DOI: 10.1080/09583157.2020.1767038   Grettenberger, I.G., O. Daugovish, D. Hasegawa, P. Rugman-Jones, D. Nieto, and R. Lara. 2022. Improving diamondback pest management in California. CAPCA 25: 56-61.   Gutiérrez Illán, J., Acebes-Doria, A., Agnello, A. M., Alston, D. G., Andrews, H., Bergh, J. C., Bessin, R. T., Blaauw, B. R., Buntin, G. D., Burkness, E. C., Cullum, J. P., Daane, K. M., Fann, L. E., Fisher, J., Girod, P., Gut, L. J., Hamilton, G. C., Hoelmer, K. A., Hutchison, W. D., Jentsch, P. J., Joseph, S., Kennedy, G. G., Krawczyk, G., Kuhar, T. P., Leskey, T. C., Nielsen, A. L., Patel, D. K., Peterson, H. D., Reisig, D. R., Rijal, J. P., Sial, A. A., Spears, L. R., Stahl, J. M., Tatman, K. M., Taylor, S. V., Tillman, G., Toews, M. D., Villanueva, R. T., Walgenbach, J., F., Welty, C., Wiman, N. G., Wilson, J. K., Zalom, F. G., Zhu, G., and Crowder, D. W. 2022. Evaluating invasion risk and population dynamics of the brown marmorated stink bug across the conterminous USA. Pest Management Science doi: 10.1002/ps.7113   Hedstrom, et al. 2022. IPM for Pollinator Protection. Video series. Oregon IPM Center, Oregon State University. <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjj0mn2BUdH2hMSIIUYC2y9hVwQvZtZtV">https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjj0mn2BUdH2hMSIIUYC2y9hVwQvZtZtV</a>   Hogg, B.N., I.M. Grettenberger, C.J. Borkent, K. Stokes, F.G. Zalom, C.H. Pickett. 2022.Natural biological control of Bagrada hilaris by egg predators and parasitoids in north-central California. Biological Control 171: 104942.   Hogg, B. N., Lee, J. C., Rogers, M., Worth, L., Nieto, D., Stahl, J. M., and Daane. K. M. 2022. Releases of the parasitoid Pachycrepoideus vindemiae for augmentative biological control of spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii. Biological Control 168: 104865. Doi: 10.1016/j.biocontrol.2022.104865   Hougardy, E.; Hogg, B.N. Factors affecting progeny production and sex ratio of Gryon aetherium (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae), a candidate biological control agent for Bagrada hilaris (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). Insects 13: 1010. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects13111010   Hougardy E, Hogg BN, Wang X, Daane KM. 2022. Discrimination abilities and parasitism success of pupal parasitoids towards spotted-wing drosophila pupae previously parasitized by the larval parasitoid Ganaspis brasiliensis (Hymenoptera: Figitidae), Environ. Entomol. (in press). <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvac083">https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvac083</a>   Ingwell, L.L. 2022. Mite management. Veg. Crops Hotline. Issue 709.   Jardeleza, M-K G, JB Koch, IS Pearse, CK Ghalambor, RA Hufbauer. 2022. The roles of phenotypic plasticity and adaptation in morphology and performance of an invasive species in a novel environment. Ecological Entomology. 47:25-37 https://doi.org/10.1111/een.13087   Jarrett BJM*, S. Linder*, PD Fanning, R. Isaacs and M. Szűcs. 2022. Limited gains in native parasitoid performance on an invasive host beyond three generations of selection. Evolutionary Applications. https://doi.org/10.1111/eva.13504. Open Access Jarrett BJM*, S. Linder*, PD Fanning, R. Isaacs and M. Szűcs. 2022. Experimental adaptation of native parasitoids to the invasive pest, Drosophila suzukii. Biological Control. 167: 104843 <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2022.104843">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2022.104843</a> (Open access) Jarrett BJM*, M Szűcs. 2022. Traits across trophic levels interact to influence parasitoid establishment in biological control releases. Ecology and Evolution.  doi.org/10.1002/ece3.8654 (Open access) Kafle, B.D., Nepal, K., Eigenbrode, S.D., Harmon, B.L., Schaffner, U. and Schwarzländer, M. 2022. Chemical ecology enables evaluation of host fidelity of a classical weed biological control agent with regard to native threatened and endangered plant species. Scientific Reports. Accepted. Kahl, H. M., T. G. Mueller, B. N. Cass, X. Xi, E. Cluff, E. E. Grafton-Cardwell, and J. A. Rosenheim.  2022.  Herbivory by European earwigs (Forficula auricularia; Dermaptera: Forficulidae) on citrus species commonly cultivated in California.  Journal of Economic Entomology 115:852-862. Karimzadeh, J, RA Hufbauer, BC Kondratieff, JG Hardin, AP Norton, 2022. A survey of the parisitoid complex of Dalmatian toadflax weevils in Colorado. Biological Control Science and Technology 32:663-669. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2021.2013441">https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2021.2013441</a>   Leppla, N. C. 2022. Concepts and Methods of Quality Assurance for Mass-Reared Parasitoids and Predators, Chapter 9. In Juan Morales Ramos, David Shapiro and Guadalupe Rojas (Eds), Mass Production of Beneficial Organisms: Invertebrates and Entomopathogens, 2nd Edition.   Leppla, N. C., Morales-Ramos, J. A., Shapiro-Ilan, D. I., and Rojas, M. G. 2022. Introduction, Chapter 1. In Juan Morales Ramos, David Shapiro and Guadalupe Rojas (Eds), Mass Production of Beneficial Organisms: Invertebrates and Entomopathogens, 2nd Edition. Leppla, N. C., K. J. Stacey, L. M. Rooney, K. M. Lennon, and A. C. Hodges. 2022. Stink bug (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) occurrence, reproduction, and injury to fruit in an organic tomato crop bordered by sorghum. J. Econ. Ent. XX: 1-14. (<a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toac194">https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toac194</a>) Linder S*, BJM. Jarrett*, M. Szűcs. 2022. Non-target attack of the native stink, Podisus maculiventris by Trissolcus japonicus, comes with fitness costs and trade-offs. Biological Control. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2022.105107">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2022.105107</a> Mc Donnell, R J., Colton, A.J., Howe, D.K., and Denver, D.R. (2022) Susceptibility of Testacella haliotidea (Testacellidae: Mollusca) to a U.S. strain of Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita (Rhabditidae: Nematoda). Biocontrol Science and Technology 32: 262-266.  <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2021.1975646">https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2021.1975646</a>   Milan, J., J. Littlefield, C.B. Randall, and J.E. Andreas. 2022. Rush Skeletonweed (Chrondrilla juncea): History and Ecology in North America. In: R.L. Winston, Ed. Biological Control of Weeds in North America. North American Invasive Species Management Association, Milwaukee, WI. NAISMA-BCW-2022-13-RUSH SKELETONWEED-P.   Millar, J. G., Zou, Y., Hall, D. R., Halloran, S., Pajares, J. A., Ponce-Herrero, L., Shates, T., Wilson, H., and Daane. K. M. 2022. Identification and synthesis of leptotriene, a unique sesquiterpene hydrocarbon from males of the leaffooted bugs Leptoglossus zonatus and L. occidentalis. Journal of Natural Products (online first) doi: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.2c00470   Monticelli, L.S., N. Desneux, A. Biondi, E. Mohl & G.E. Heimpel. 2022. Post-introduction changes of host specificity traits in the aphid parasitoid Lysiphlebus testaceipes.  Entomologia Generalis 42: 559-569.   Moore A, Andrew J. Monitoring Cycad Aulacaspis Scale (CAS), Aulacaspis yasumatsui, Infesting Cycas micronesica in the Tinian Conservation Plots using Sticky Traps [Internet]. 2022. Available from: <a href="https://github.com/aubreymoore/Tinian-CAS/raw/main/reports/%20sticky_traps.pdf">https://github.com/aubreymoore/Tinian-CAS/raw/main/reports/ sticky_traps.pdf</a>   Moore A, Andrew J. Monitoring Aulacaspis yasumatsui on Cycas micronesica in the Tinian Conservation Plots using Leaf Samples [Internet]. 2022. Available from: <a href="https://github.com/aubreymoore/Tinian-CAS/raw/main/reports/%20leaf_samples.pdf">https://github.com/aubreymoore/Tinian-CAS/raw/main/reports/ leaf_samples.pdf</a>   Moran PJ, DeClerck-Floate R, Hill MP, Raghu S, Paynter Q, Goolsby JA. 2022. Mass-production of insects for biological control of weeds: a global perspective. pp. 157-194 (Chapter 6) in Morales-Ramos J, Rojas G, Shapiro D, (Eds.), Mass Production of Beneficial Organisms: Invertebrates and Entomopathogens, 2nd Edition.  Elsevier, San Diego, CA. ISBN: 978-0-12-822106-8.  https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-822106-8.00014-2   Moran PJ, Goolsby JA. 2022. Biological control of arundo, an invasive grass threatening water resources and national security, pp. 373–389. In: Van Driesche RG., Winston RI, Perring TM, Lopez VM (eds.). Contributions of Classical Biological Control to the U.S. Food Security, Forestry, and Biodiversity. FHAAST-2019-05. USDA Forest Service, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA. https://bugwoodcloud.org/resource/files/23194.pdf. The chapter only: https://bugwoodcloud.org/resource/files/25354.pdf.   Nobes, S., Herreid, J., Panter, K., and Jabbour, R. 2022. Insect visitors of specialty cut flowers in high tunnels. Journal of Economic Entomology 115: 909-913.   Olimpi, E. M., Garcia, K., Gonthier, D. J., Kremen, C., Snyder, W. E., Wilson-Rankin, E. E., & Karp, D. S. (2022). Semi-natural habitat surrounding farms promotes multifunctionality in avian ecosystem services. Journal of Applied Ecology, 59, 898-908. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.14124 Pellissier, M.E., Rand, T.A., Murphy, M.A., and Jabbour, R. 2022. Landscape composition and management history affect alfalfa weevil but not its parasitoid. Environmental Entomology <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvac057">https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvac057</a>   Paredes, D., J. A. Rosenheim, and D. S. Karp.  2022.  Causes and consequences of pest population stability in agricultural landscapes.  Ecological Applications.  DOI: 10.1002/eap.2607   Park, I., Schwarzländer, M., Eigenbrode, S.D., Harmon, B.L. Hinz, H.L., Schaffner, U. Non-destructive environmental safety assessment of threatened and endangered plants in weed biological control. PeerJ. Accepted.   Penca, C., Goltz, N. C., Hodges, A. C., Leppla, N. C., Eger, J. E., and Smith, T. R. 2022. Use of pyriproxyfen to induce oogenesis in diapausing Megacopta cribraria (Heteroptera: Plataspidae), and evaluation of pyriproxyfen-induced eggs for rearing the parasitoid Paratelenomus saccharalis (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae). Insects. 13, 89. (<a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/insects13010089Insects">https://doi.org/10.3390/insects13010089Insects</a>)   Ramirez, I.E., Causton, C.E., Gutierrez, G.A., Mosquera, D., Piedrahita, P., Heimpel, G.E. 2022.  Specificity within bird-parasite-parasitoid food webs: a novel approach for evaluating potential biological control agents of the Avian Vampire Fly. Journal of Applied Ecology 59: 2189-2198.   Rankin, D. T., Loope, K. J., & Wilson-Rankin, E. E. (2022). Seasonal phenology and colony longevity patterns in a predatory social wasp. Western North American Naturalist, 82(1), 146-154. https://doi.org/10.3398/064.082.0113 Rivers, A. R., Grodowitz, M.J., Miles, G.P., Allen, M.L., Elliott, B., Weaver, M., Bon, M.C., Rojas, M.G., Morales-Ramos,J.,  2022. Gross Morphology of Diseased Tissues in Nezara viridula (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) and Molecular Characterization of an Associated Microsporidian. Journal of Insect Science, 22( 2), March 2022, 4, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/jisesa/ieac013">https://doi.org/10.1093/jisesa/ieac013</a>.   Rosenheim, J. A., E. Cluff, M. K. Lippey, B. N. Cass, D. Paredes, S. Parsa, D. S. Karp, and R. Chaplin-Kramer.  2022.  Increasing crop field size does not consistently exacerbate insect pest problems. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 119:e2208813119.   Rosenheim, J. A., and S. J. Schreiber.  2022.  Pathways to the density-dependent expression of cannibalism, and consequences for regulated population dynamics.  Ecology e3578.   Rossi-Stacconi, M. V., Wang, X.-G., Stout, A., Fellin, L., Daane, K. M., Biondi, A., Stahl, J. M., Buffington, M. L., Anfora, G., Hoelmer, K. A. 2022. Methods for rearing the parasitoid Ganaspis brasiliensis, a promising biological control agent for invasive Drosophila suzukii. JoVE Journal184 e63898. doi 10.3791/63898 (online: <a href="https://www.jove.com/v/63898">https://www.jove.com/v/63898</a>)   Schurkman, J., Dodge, C., McDonnell, R., De Ley, I., and Dillman, A. (in press) Lethality of Phasmarhabditis nematode spp. (P. hermaphrodita, P. californica, and P. papillosa) to the Gray Field Slug Deroceras reticulatum on Canna Lilies in a Lath House. Agronomy   Schurkman, J., Tandingan De Ley, I., Anesko, K., Paine, T., Mc Donnell, R., and Dillman, A. (2022) Distribution of Phasmarhabditis (Nematode: Rhabditidae) and their gastropod hosts in California plant nurseries and garden centers. Frontiers in Plant Science 13: 856863. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2022.856863   Smith, O. M., Kennedy, C. M., Echeverri, A., Karp, D. S., Latimer, C. E., Taylor, J. M., Wilson-Rankin, E. E., Owen, J. P., & Snyder, W. E. (2022). Complex landscapes stabilize farm bird communities and their expected ecosystem services. Journal of Applied Ecology, 59(4), 927-941. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.14104">https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.14104</a>   Smith L, Park I. 2022. Conditions to terminate reproductive diapause of a univoltine insect: Ceratapion basicorne (Coleoptera: Apionidae), a biological control agent of yellow starthistle. Environ. Entomol. 51: 71-76.  https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvab110   Spring JF, Revolinski SR, Young FL, Lyon DJ, Burke IC (2022) Weak population differentiation and high diversity in Salsola tragus in the inland Pacific Northwest, USA. Pest Management Science 78:4728–4740.   Stacey, K. J. 2022. Rearing and parasitism of Trichopoda pennipes (Diptera: Tachinidae) on Nezara viridula (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) for augmentative biological control. University of Florida, 81 p.   Stahlke, AR, EV Bitume, AZ Ozsoy, DW Bean, A Veillet, MI Clark, EI Clark, P Moran, RA Hufbauer, PA Hohenlohe. 2022. Hybridization and range expansion in tamarisk beetles (Diorhabda spp.) introduced to North America for classical biological control. Evolutionary Applications.  <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/eva.13325">https://doi.org/10.1111/eva.13325</a>   Straser, R. K., Daane, K. M., Talamas, E, and Wilson, H. 2022. Evaluation of Hadronotus pennsylvanicum as a prospective biological control agent of Leptoglossus zonatus. BioControl 67:123–133. doi:10.1007/s10526-022-10131-z(0123456789().,-volV)(0123456789().,-volV)   Subedi, B., Schwarzländer, M., Eigenbrode, S.D., Harmon, B.L. and Weyl, P. Understanding the host finding behavior of a biological weed control candidate specialist as a contribution to pre-release risk assessments. BioControl. Accepted.   Sullivan, C.F., B.L. Parker & M. Skinner. 2022. A review of commercial Metharhizium- and Beauveria-based biopesticides for the biological control of ticks in the USA. Insects: 13. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/">https://doi.org/10.3390/</a>   Taylor, J. M., Smith, O. M., Edworthy, M., Kennedy, C. M., Latimer, C. E., Owen, J. P., Wilson-Rankin, E. E., & Snyder, W. E. (2022). Bird predation and landscape context shape arthropod communities on broccoli. Ornithological Applications, 124(2). <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/ornithapp/duac005">https://doi.org/10.1093/ornithapp/duac005</a>   Vidovic B, Petanovic RU, Di Cristina F, Cristofaro M, Marini F, Rector BG. 2022. A new Aculodes species (Prostigmata: Eriophyidae) described from an invasive weed by morphological, morphometric and DNA barcode analyses. Insects 13: 877.   Vincze, H.R. 2022.  A flying start for insects: Incorporating drones in the distribution of insects used as biological control agents.  MS Thesis.  New Mexico State University.  91pp.   Wilson, H., Hogg, B. N., Blaisdell, K. G. Anderson, J. C., Yazdani, A. S., Billings, A. C., Ooi, K. M., Almeida, R. P. P., Cooper, M. L., and Daane, K. M. 2022. Survey of vineyard insects and plants to identify potential insect vectors and non-crop reservoirs of Grapevine Red Blotch Virus. Phytofrontiers 2(1): 66-73 doi: 10.1094/PHYTOFR-04-21-0028-R   Wilson, H., Daane, K. M., Maccaro, J. J., Scheibner, R. S., Britt, K. E., Gaudin, A.C.M. 2022. Winter cover crops reduce spring emergence and egg deposition of overwintering navel orangeworm (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in almonds. Environmental Entomology. (online first) doi: 10.1093/ee/nvac051   Zhang, J., Heraty, J.M., Darling, D.C., Kresslien, R.L., Baker, A.J., Torréns, J., Rasplus, J.-Y., Lemmon, A., Moriarty-Lemmon, E. (2022). Anchored phylogenomics and a revised classification of the planidial larva clade of jewel wasps (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea). Systematic Entomology 47: 329–353. doi:10.1111/syen.12533

Impact Statements

Date of Annual Report: 12/19/2023

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 10/23/2023 - 10/25/2023
Period the Report Covers: 01/01/2023 - 12/31/2023

Participants

Lynn LeBeck, Michigan State University
Rory McDonnell, Oregon State University
Erin Wilson Rankin, University of California
Ricky Lara, CDFA Biological Control Program
Jeffrey Littlefield, Montana State University
John Heraty University of Cal. Riverside
James Woolley Texas A&M University
Matt Yoder Illinois Natural History Survey
Petr Janšta Charles University, Czech Republic
Alan Lemmon Florida State University
Emily Lemmon Florida State University
Keith Hopper USDA-ARS
Jean-Yves Rasplus INRAE, France
Astrid Cruaud INRAE, France
Junxia Zhang Hebei University, China
Ross H. Miller, University of Guam
Aubrey Moore, University of Guam, Mangilao
Dave Crowder, Washington State University
Robert Shatters, USDA -René FH Sforza
Marie-Claude Bon, USDA-ARS
Javid Kashefi, USDA-ARS
Mélanie Tannières, USDA-ARS
Gaylord Desurmont, USDA-ARS
Jennifer Andreas, Washington State University
Mark Wright, University of Hawaii at Manoa
Jay A. Rosenheim, University of California, Davis
Adler Dillman, University California, Riverside
Dr. Patrick J. Moran, USDA-ARS
Randa Jabbour, University of Wyoming
Dr. Houston Wilson, UC Riverside
Dr. Jocelyn Millar, UC Riverside
Dr. Xingeng Wang, USDA-ARS
Dr. Kim Hoelmer, USDA-ARS
Dr. Monica Cooper, UC Cooperative Extension
Dr. Brian Hogg, USDA-ARS
Dr. Jana Lee, USDA-ARS
Dr. Ricky Lara, CDFA Biological Control Program
Dr. Vaughn Walton, Oregon State Univ.
Dr. Mathew Buffington, USDA ARS
Dr. Keith Hopper, USDA ARS
Dr. Paul Abram, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Agassiz, British Columbia
Dr. Marc Kenis, CABI, Delémont, Switzerland
Dr. Emilio Guerrieri, Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, Portici, Italy
Dr. Massimo Giorgini, Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, Portici, Italy
Dr. Antonio Biondi, University of Catania, Catania
USDA SCRI Spotted Wing Drosophila team members
USDA SCRI Grape Red Blotch team members
USDA OREI Spotted Wing Drosophila team members
USDA SCRI Brown Marmorated Stink Bug team members (contact me for a complete list)
Paul Ode, Colorado State University
Kerry Mauck, University of California, Riverside
Mark Hoddle, University of CA

Participants Attachment:

W5185_2023_Report_Final_CA.docx

Brief Summary of Minutes

W5185

Western Biological Control Group

2024, October 23 – 25

Notes on meeting. Can we have a program? Would people send abstracts ahead of time?

At the conclusion of the last meeting, we voted on the location of the next meeting. It was decided that the 2024 meeting will be held at Best Western Plus Inn in Hood River, OR. Date was decided, I was told this meeting is usually held earlier in the month, we will need to confirm the dates so I can confirm our reservations.

Best Western Plus Hood River Inn

541-386-2200 Link

One topic of discussion was general attendance. There was a comment that we have many more members than we see in attendance at these meetings. There is no reason that this meeting has to be a stand alone meeting. Most other meetings meet at the national meetings.

We also discussed how this meeting has been arranged (paid for) in the past. Rooms and accommodations have been put on the personal credit card of the current Chair, who is then reimbursed after the event, sometimes with personal checks that need to be deposited or through a payment app attached to their bank account. (minus and transaction fees from paypal). I think there is a risk that this could be looked at as income for the person receiving payments.

In order to book a block of rooms the organizer has to negotiate and sign a contract committing them to a number of “room nights” and all the food and coffee. Each hotel is a little different but, if we do not fulfill those “room nights” the organizer is still obligated to pay for those rooms. While it has never come up the risk is always there.

Chris Adams will compile annual report and submit to the NIMSS system and plan next year’s meeting.

We will work towards formin a 501C 3 for future meetings, create bylaws, and form a board for future meetgins.

Minutes Attachment:

W5185 2023 Final Agenda & Meeting Minutes.docx

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

Date of Annual Report: 12/27/2024

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 10/28/2024 - 10/30/2024
Period the Report Covers: 01/01/2024 - 12/31/2024

Participants

Christopher Adams OR State Univ. chris.adams@oregonstate.edu
Jennifer Andreas WA State Univ. jandreas@wsu.edu
Chris Borkent CA Dept. of Food and Ag. chris.borkent@cdfa.ca.gov Kelsey Coffman Univ. of TN kcoffman@utk.edu
Kent Daane Univ. of CA, Berkeley kdaane@ucanr.edu Timothy Collier Univ. of WY tcollier@uwyo.edu
David Crowder WA State Univ. dcrowder@wsu.edu Adler R. Dillman Univ. of CA, Riverside adlerd@ucr.edu
Peter Ellsworth Univ. of AZ peterell@ag.arizona.edu Travis R. Faske AR Cooperative Extension tfaske@uada.edu
Joel Felix OR State Univ. joel.felix@oregonstate.edu Gino Graziano Univ. of AK, Fairbanks gagraziano@alaska.edu George Heimpel Univ. of MN heimp001@umn.edu
John Heraty Univ. of CA, Riverside heraty@ucr.edu Hariet Hinz CABI Switzerland h.hinz@cabi.org Mark Hoddle Univ. of CA, Riverside mark.hoddle@ucr.edu
Ruth Hufbauer CO State Univ. ruth.hufbauer@colostate.edu
Martha Hunter Univ. of AZ mhunter@ag.arizona.edu
Randa Jabbour Univ. of WY rjabbour@uwyo.edu
Laura Ingwell Purdue Univ. lingwell@purdue.edu Adam Lambert Univ. of CA, Santa Barbara Alambert@ucsb.edu Ricky Lara CA Dept. of Food and Ag. ricky.lara@cdfa.ca.gov Lynn LeBeck Assoc. of Nat. Biocontrol Producers Llebeck46@comcast.net Norman C. Leppla Univ. of FL ncleppla@ufl.edu
Jeffrey Littlefield MT State Univ. JeffreyL@Montana.edu Kerry Mauck Univ. of CA, Riverside kerry.mauck@ucr.edu
Rory McDonnell OR State Univ. rory.mcdonnell@oregonstate.edu
Emily Meineke Univ. of CA, Davis ekmeineke@ucdavis.edu
Joseph Milan BLM jmilan@blm.gov
Ross Miller Univ. of Guam millerr@triton.uog.edu Nicholas Mills Univ. of CA, Berkeley nmills@berkeley.edu Patrick Moran USDA-ARS, Albany, CA patrick.moran@usda.gov
Andrew P. Norton CO State Univ. Andrew.Norton@colostate.edu
Paul Ode CO State Univ. paul.ode@colostate.edu Ikju Park Univ. of CA, Riverside ikju.park@ucr.edu

Ricardo A. Ramirez NM State Univ. ricarami@nmsu.edu Erin Wilson Rankin Univ. of CA, Riverside erin.rankin@ucr.edu George K. Roderick Univ. of CA, Berkeley roderick@berkeley.edu
Jay Rosenheim Univ. of CA, Davis jarosenheim@ucdavis.edu
Mark Schwarzlaender Univ. of ID markschw@uidaho.edu Margaret Skinner Univ. of VT and State Ag. College mskinner@uvm.edu Marianna Szucs MI State Univ. szucsmar@msu.edu Christiane Weirauch Univ. of CA, Riverside christiane.weirauch@ucr.edu Houston Wilson Univ. of CA, Riverside houston.wilson@ucr.edu Mark Wright Univ. of HI markwrig@hawaii.edu
Steve Young USDA-ARS Beltsville Ag. Res. Ctr. stephen.young@usda.gov

Brief Summary of Minutes

The group had its annual meeting in Hood River, OR this year. Over 20 presentation on Biological Control were presented. Group discussions wee had on how to better communicate the accomplishments of the group to various stakholders including the public.

Meeting agenda attached.

Accomplishments

<h1>1.  PROGRESS OF WORK AND PRINCIPAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS:</h1>   Objective 1: Import and Establish Effective Natural Enemies   Objective 1a. Survey indigenous natural enemies.   <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol> </li> </ul> Adams: Our lab is currently rearing and releasing Trissolcus japonicus against the invasive brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys). We are also rearing and releasing three wasps against the invasive spotted wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii), including Ganaspis kimorum (formerly Ganaspis brasiliensis), Leptopilina japonica, and Pachycrepoideus vindemmiae.   Dillman: Our lab is working to isolate and identify new species of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs). We have isolated a new species from Thailand, which we described this year. We are now, in collaboration, investigating its potential as a biocontrol agent against Helicoverpa zea.   Hoddle: Native egg parasitoids in the genus Anastatus (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae) have been proactively screened for efficacy towards eggs of spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula). Native parasitoids reared from eggs of native lantern flies in Arizona and a widely distributed native parasitoid, A. reduvii, have been assessed in quarantine at UC Riverside. Results indicated that at least one species of native parasitoid, A. reduvii, may have potential as a natural enemy of L. delicatula. However, the impacts of this parasitoid on L. delicatula eggs are dependent upon the species of host eggs on which this parasitoid was reared prior to exposure to L. delicatula eggs. Completed field work in commercial citrus orchards continues to indicate that larvae of native hover flies (Diptera: Syrphidae) are important predators of Asian citrus psyllids, Diaphorina citri. Impacts of these native predators can be enhanced when invasive Argentine ants are controlled and flowering crops like alyssum, are provided.   Heraty: We continue to follow up on the accidental introduction of Orasema minutissima to the island of Hawaii as a potential biological control agent against Wasmannia auropunctata (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Our current efforts center on sequencing populations of the ants and parasitoids from different locations in Hawaii and islands in the Caribbean and south Florida. Our phylogeny of Chalcidoidea was completed in 2024 (Cruaud et al. 2024). Lara: Progress has been made on multiple pest projects. Several thousand sentinel eggs of H. halys were deployed in Northern California during 2024 to monitor for resident parasitoids of this stinkbug pest. Several collections of gelechiid larvae were made to look natural enemies that may attack this group of moths as part of proactive biocontrol efforts targeting Phthorimaea absoluta. Also, funnel traps and prism traps were deployed across several California counties to monitor for resident natural enemies of buprestid beetles as part of proactive biocontrol efforts targeting Agrilus planipennis.   Moran: A leaf-feeding moth, Condica viscosa, was collected as a candidate agent for stinkwort (Dittrichia graveolens).   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol>   Adams: Impact on target invasive species (H. halys, D. suzukii) will continue to be measured in the future.   Dillman: We are still testing a new entomopathogenic nematode species against insect pests and are working to identify and explore the potential of other strains and species. This work is ongoing. Hoddle: The spotted lanternfly and Asian citrus psyllid projects detailed above in 1a have been completed and are currently being written up for publication.     Objective 1b. Conduct foreign exploration and ecological studies in native range of pest.   <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests</li> </ul>   <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol>   Andreas: We partner with CABI Switzerland to conduct flowering rush biocontrol and parrotfeather development. We also work with WSDA and BBCA in Italy to support biocontrol development for tree-of-heaven.   Borkent: Collections of Psyllaephagus euphyllurae, a key co-evolved parasitoid of the olive psylllid (Euphyllura olivina), were made in Europe (i.e., Spain and France) to support ongoing P. euphyllurae lab rearing and field release operations in California targeting E. olivina.   Hoddle: Foreign exploration was conducted in Valenca, Brazil, for a parasitic fly, Billaea rhynchophorae. Larvae of this fly parasitize pupae of the South American palm   weevil, Rhynchophorus palmarum, an invasive pest of palms in California. Parasitized weevil pupae were recovered in Valenca. Unfortunately, we were unable to keep the flies alive in the lab in Recife Brazil and adult flies did not mate or larviposit onto pre-pupal palm weevil larvae. Moran: The stem-boring weevil, Lixus carinerostris, was imported into quarantine for host range testing as a candidate agent targeting crystalline ice plant, Mesembryanthemum crystallinum. Park: A rapid identification of Gastrophysa atrocyanea (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), the potential biological control agent for invasive Rumex species, was developed using the UV- marking application. The application allows G. strocyanea to explore whole plants for oviposition, which is applicable for mass-rearing other biological control agents, including Ceratapion basicorne. The work was published in the Journal of Asia-Pacific Entomology.   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol>   Hoddle: To be able to establish and maintain colonies of the parasitic flies that attack South American palm weevil, more work is needed on basic aspects of the behavior and biology of B. rhynchophorae.   Heraty: We continue to work with researchers in Argentina to revise species that are parasitoids of Solenopsis ants. Javier Torréns is working on a revision of the Orasema susanae species group. There are many different research areas in progress, especially on Aphelinidae, Eucharitidae and Mymaridae.   Objective 1c. Determine systematics and biogeography of pests and natural enemies.   <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests</li> </ul>   <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol>   Crowder: We created habitat suitability models for brown marmorated stink bug and two of its key natural enemies, T. japonicus and Nosema maddoxi. This work involved gathering data on both species through nationwide surveys. We then published a paper testing overlap between the species.   Hoddle: The systematics of lantern flies (Fulgoridae) in the genus Scaralina, native to Arizona, was completed. Numerous new species were described, and this work has been published in Zootaxa. Almost nothing was known about these native lantern flies until field, morphological, and molecular work was undertaken and completed. The reason this work was undertaken was to better prepare the southwestern US, and California in particular, for the anticipated invasion of spotted lantern fly, L. delicatula.   Heraty: We are developing a new research program on the genus Encarsia, which are aphelinid parasitoids of armored scales and whiteflies. The initial objectives are a revision of the Encarsia   strenua species group and a molecular phyogeny of the entire genus. This research was being conducted by a graduate student (Robert Kresslein). Mc Donnell: Ongoing pest gastropod surveys in the western U.S. have shown that the wrinkled snail, Xeroplexa intersecta, has been introduced and is spreading in the Pacific Northwest. A guidebook on the slugs of California with an emphasis on introduced species was updated and translated into Spanish. Park: With CABI-Switzerland, we evaluated the new natural enemy for invasive box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis), which was found in South Korea. The parasitoid, Braunsia hodorii Kang, sp. nov., attacks the larvae of box tree moths. The work was published in the Journal of Hymenoptera Research.   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol> Heraty: Research is underway on developing a molecular phylogeny for the egg-parasitic Mymaridae by a relatively new graduate student (Krissy Dominguez). Her research is utilizing three different molecular approaches to look at congruence of results, and ultimately the proposal of a new classification for the group. We continue to develop a database for taxonomic and biological information on the superfamily in TaxonWorks. This system manages data for more than 30,000 taxonomic names and over 50,000 literature references, including information on their hosts and distributions.     Objective 1d. Determine environmental safety of exotic candidates prior to release. <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests</li> </ul>   <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol>   Hoddle: The host range of natural enemies of spotted lanternfly, L. delicatula, were assessed in quarantine at UC Riverside. Previously completed work on Anastatus orientalis, an egg parasitoid native to China, the country of origin for L. delicatula, indicated that this parasitoid had a brought host range and posed unacceptable risk to native non-target US species. Additional work with a commercially available European species, A. bifasciatus, indicated that this parasitoid was also capable of parasitizing the eggs of a range of native US non-target species and should not be considered for use in a biological control program targeting L. delicatula. Mc Donnell: Laboratory infectivity assays have demonstrated that the European malacopathogenic nematode, Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita is lethal to Monadenia fidelis, a terrestrial gastropod species endemic to the Pacific Northwest.   Park: A nondestructive method was completed to examine the environmental safety of a potential biological control agent, Mogulones borraginis, for federally listed threatened and endangered plant species. During behavioral bioassays, the seed-feeding weevil preferred invasive houndstongue (C. officinale) to all native threatened and endangered plant species in Boraginaceae. The work was published in PeerJ.   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol> Hoddle: Findings of host range testing for A. bifasciatus are at an advanced stage of preparation and it is anticipated that this work will be submitted for publication in late 2024.   Objective 1e. Release, establish and redistribute natural enemies. <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol> </li> </ul> Adams: Our lab is measuring establishment of released parasitoids against brown marmorated stinkn bug in subsequent years post-release. We have recaptured T. japonicus at 80% of the release sites. ; Andreas: Released 12 biocontrol agent species (and strains) for nine weed species at over 200 field sites.   Borkent: In 2024, CDFA released P. euphyllurae for biological control of E. olivina, an invasive insect pest of olives. Additionally, two biocontrol agents were released for invasive weeds: Aphalara itadori against Reynoutria sachalinensis and Aulacidea acroptilonica against Acroptilon repens. Additionally, a survey of Centaurea virgata spp. squarrosa sites in Northern California, 10 years after the last release, found plants were heavily infested with Sphenoptera jugoslavica, Bangasternus fausti, and Larinus minutus. Centaurea virgata spp. squarrosa density had also decreased significantly from a monoculture to only a few individuals per site. Lara: Several thousand T. japonicus parasitoids were released in Northern California during 2024 as part of biocontrol efforts targeting invasive H. halys populations.   Littlefield: Eleven releases of the gall mite, Aceria drabae for hoary cress (Lepidium draba), were made in Montana in the spring of 2024. Of these, mites were recovered at seven sites. Only a small proportion of the total stems inoculated produced galls. Gall material was also provided the Colorado Department of Agriculture Insectary in Palisades, and the University of Wyoming. As of 2024, releases have been made at 26 sites in Montana. Galls have been observed at approximately 70% of our releases, and its status of 19% of the releases is unknown (new 2024 releases). Only three sites are known to have failed, due to an herbicide application, heavy grazing, or perhaps due to site conditions (environmental factors).   Moran: The arundo armored scale, Rhizaspidiotus donacis, was demonstrated as established at eight field sites in the Sacramento and San Joaquin River watersheds of northern California.   Ramirez: We identified field release sites in New Mexico for A. drabae, a gall mite used for classical biocontrol of L. draba. We also collected plants and seeds to start a greenhouse colony of L. draba.   Szucs: For biological control of invasive swallow-wort vines over 900 adult Hypena opulenta moths were released at two locations in Michigan. Monitoring of prior releases between 2020-   2023 at 15 field sites continued across Michigan. Establishment success has not been confirmed to date. For biological control of spotted wing drosophila over 5000 G. kimorum were released across 7 field sites in Michigan. These are 2nd year releases for this agent at the given locations. Establishment success of the parasitoid wasps has not been confirmed yet. <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol> Adams: Our lab will continue to monitor for released parasitoids targeting spotted wing drosophila. G. kimorum, and Leptopilina japonica have not been recaptured. Pachycrepoideus vindemmiae can be found in large numbers.   Littlefield: Timing of redistributions of the mite A. drabae, from cooler sites to warmer sites where plant phenology maybe more advanced and less susceptible to gall induction may be problematic. We will be looking at better methods for mite redistribution within a broader geographic area.   Ramirez: Future work includes establishing a lab colony of A. drabae and releasing in pre- identified field sites in New Mexico as mites become available.   Szucs: Establishment success of G. kimorum should be monitored at the release sites. So far only releases took place and no monitoring in Michigan.     Objective 1f. Evaluate natural enemy efficacy and study ecological/physiological basis for interactions. <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests</li> </ul>   <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol>   Andreas: Conducted post-release monitoring for four weed systems (diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Dalmatian toadflax, and St. Johnswort). Established and conducted pre-release monitoring for three weed systems (whitetop, flowering rush, and yellow starthistle). Monitoring is conducted yearly. Collier: We novelly applied a habitat suitability modelling approach commonly used in conservation and wildlife management, “MaxEnt,” to our weed biological control system. We analyzed two types of occurrence data for the Canada thistle gall fly, Urophora cardui: existing records of galls observed at release sites by weed managers, and our own observations based on visits to release sites during 2023 and 2024. Analyses using MaxEnt identified several environmental variables that best predict the presence of U. cardui. Temperature and precipitation during the spring plus distance to wet habitat were the most predictive of successful establishment of sustained U. cardui populations in Wyoming. This research shows that analyses using MaxEnt can yield insight into the factors that limit establishment of weed biological control agents. A presentation about the results of the habitat suitability modeling for U. cardui was given at an annual meeting of Wyoming weed managers.   Hoddle: The potential biotic resistance of native egg parastioids in the genus Anastatus (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae) towards spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula (Hemiptera: Fulgorida) was assessed in the quarantine facility at UCR. Undescribed native Anastatus sp. reared from eggs of species of native western U.S. lantern flies in Arizona were able to parasitize L. delicatula eggs. An additional native species, A.reduvii, also successfully parasitized L. delicatula eggs. These native species of Anastatus may lessen the severity of impacts by L. delicatula when this pest eventually invades California. Littlefield: Our initial releases of A. drabae for hoary cress were made six seasons ago. Over this time, we have observed not only increased number of stems infested but an increase in gall intensity. We have begun to characterize mite impact on seed production, plant height and secondary branching. As expected, the number of seeds produced decreased with percent infestation of the crown. Very few seeds were produced at higher gall intensities (86-100% reduction). A slight reduction in height was observed at the higher impact categories. However, the impact of galls may differ as to year or site/habitat. McDonnell: The malacopathogenic nematode, Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita and/or emulsions of cedarwood essential oil can be used to reduce damage to lettuce grown in propagators by the invasive slug, Deroceras reticulatum.   Szucs: Experiments were conducted with the biocontrol agent A. itadori that was released to control invasive knotweeds to assess how hybridization among two different strains of A. itadori may impact their host choice and developmental success. We found that all that both the parental and hybrid populations of A. itadori laid eggs on all three targeted knotweed species (Japanese, Giant and Bohemian) but some of the choices were maladaptive because the eggs failed to develop. Hybrid A. itadori had intermediate or higher survival on given knotweed species compared to their parents. These results can inform release tactics of A. itadori on different knotweed species in different climatic regions. <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol>   Adams: Our lab has not been able to measure an ecological effect on target pests. It will likely be years before we can measure an impact due to natural enemies.   Collier: My graduate student and I continue to research the environmental factors that limit long- term establishment of a weed biological control agent, an imported fly from Europe that attacks Canada thistle, a problematic weed across the northern U.S.   Hoddle: All aspects of proactive work on assessing biotic resistance of native egg parasitoids towards L. delicatula have been completed and this work is at an advanced stage of preparation for submission to a peer reviewed scientific journal.   Littlefield: We will further characterize A. drabae impact in the future. SIMP transects have been established adjacent to several of these releases to determine changes in plant density. To help land managers to more easily characterize gall intensity, we are trying to develop a simplified rating system to assess the extent of plant infestation. Non-target utilization of other mustard   species by the mite will continue to be monitored; especially on L. campestre, an introduced annual weed. Szucs: Establishment success of A. itadori in Michigan has not been confirmed despite the release of over 40,000 adults between 2022-2023.   Objective 2a. Characterize and identify pest and natural enemy communities and their interactions. <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests</li> </ul>   <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol>   Heraty: A graduate student in my lab (Krissy Dominguez) is addressing relationships in the Gonatocerus species group, which include important egg parasitoids of sharpshooters in California. This will be the first molecular analysis of the group and will try to address some recent controversial taxonomic changes that have been made at the genus level.   Jabbour: Worked to identify carabid beetles collected from a study examining how cover crops affect beneficial arthropods. This work was presented at the Entomological Society of America North Central Branch meeting in 2024.   Mauck: We performed experiments in both the laboratory and field to evaluate the effects of biological material derived from industrial insect rearing (insect frass) on soil microbes that prime plant defenses against arthropod pests and directly suppress soil pathogens. We collected samples from soil amended with frass materials over time to correlate microbial communities with frass mineralization. DNA extraction and sequencing to identify microbial communities is ongoing. We obtained additional funding from a Specialty Crop Block Grant to continue some of this work based on initial W5185 funding and are pursuing additional funding from USDA. Ramirez: Research was conducted on Hypera postica (alfala weevil), Acyrthosiphon pisum (pea aphid), and Spodoptera exigua (beet armyworm). Activities included (1) field site identification and sampling to evaluate natural enemy and pest communities in New Mexico alfalfa, (2) manipulation of natural enemy and life stage diversity in field cages to evaluate impact on pest suppression, (3) a survey of alfalfa field sites with varied insecticide use to evaluate natural enemy and pest communities in New Mexico and (4) gathering selective and broad-spectrum insecticides to conduct bottle assays on pest and natural enemies.   Rankin: We have been sampling pests and natural enemies in CA vineyards and developing PCR-based screens for 6 major pests and 2 groups of common native natural enemies. We have extracted fecal samples from >200 bluebirds and 100 tree swallows that nest in these vineyards.   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol> Jabbour: Beetles sampled from the cover crop study continue to be identified to species. Once this is complete, the data will be summarized in draft a manuscript for future publication.   Mauck: We need to complete sequencing and bioinformatic analysis for microbiome characterization, as well as community analyses to identify key players that may be isolated for future study. Ramirez: Several aspects of H. postica, A. pisum, and S. exigua require further investigation, including, (1) evaluation of environmental and landscape factors that impact natural enemy and pest communities, (2) continuing field cage evaluation of natural enemies for additional alfalfa pests, (3) evaluating changes in insecticide use on natural enemy and pest communities, and (4) development of pest and natural enemy sensitivity curves to insecticides used in alfalfa.   Rankin: We are developing species-specific primers for two important parasitoid wasps that prey on major pests in CA vineyards. We are starting to screen the fecal samples of bluebirds and tree swallows for the presence of grape pests and their natural enemies. This will help us assess whether these birds are providing net pest control services in vineyards.     Objective 2b. Identify and assess factors potentially disruptive to biological control. <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests</li> </ul>   <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol>   Hoddle: Invasive Argentine ants are a significant impediment to biological control agents attacking honeydew producing hemipterans. Ants harvest honeydew from sap sucking pests and in return ants protect these pests from their natural enemies. Recently completed work indicated that when ants are controlled with biodegradable hydrogel beads that contain sugar water laced with insecticide and flowering cover crops which provide natural enemies with pollen and nectar, are also available, pest populations decrease significantly because of enhanced natural enemy activity. Rankin: As detailed above, we have led the diet analysis of avian predators to assess the degree to which these species potentially disrupt pest control via the consumption of natural enemies and/or biocontrol agents.   Szucs: The resistance of invasive spotted wing drosophila was tested against parasitism prior to the release of the parasitoid biocontrol agent G. kimorum to better understand factors that may impact the effectiveness of this biocontrol agent. We found large differences in resistance against parasitism among seven populations of spotted wing drosophila across Michigan that ranged between 12-48% regionally. This can result in variable biocontrol success locally. The phenology of invasive lily leaf beetles was assessed in newly invaded areas in Michigan. This served to understand the timing of the different life stages under the climatic conditions in Michigan so that future biocontrol agent releases can be conducted appropriately. Three parasitoid species established for lily leaf beetle biocontrol in New England that have successfully controlled the pest there. An attempt was made in 2024 to import these biocontrol agents to Michigan, but emergence rate was too low for releases.   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol> Szucs: Follow up study is needed once G. kimorum is established to understand how spotted wing drosophila populations evolve in response to attack by biocontrol agents. New parasitoid importation from Switzerland may be warranted because their collection from established populations in New England appears difficult, partly due to their success at suppressing the pest and subsequently persisting at low populations.     Objective 2c. Implement and evaluate habitat modification, horticultural practices, and pest suppression tactics to conserve natural enemy activity. <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests</li> </ul>   <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol>   Hoddle: Planting flowering cover crops in commercial citrus orchards was demonstrated to increase the impacts of natural enemies, especially hover flies (Syrphidae), against sap sucking pests (i.e., hemipterans) infesting citrus trees. The positive effects of cover crops was enhanced further when ants that are antagonistic towards natural enemies are controlled via the deployment of biodegradable hydrogel beads infused with 25% sucrose solution and very low amounts of insecticide.   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol>   Hoddle: Results from field studies evaluating the benefits of planting flowering crops in commercial citrus orchards are being analyzed and prepared for publication sometime in 2025.     Objective 3a. Assess biological characteristics of natural enemies. <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests</li> </ul>   <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol>   Mauck: We performed experiments to evaluate the potential for materials derived from insect rearing operations (frass, insect bodies and exoskeletons) to protect plants against insect vectors and vector-borne plant viruses. We conducted a field experiment evaluating efficacy against an aphid-transmitted pathogen and laboratory/greenhouse experiments evaluating efficacy against a thrips-transmitted pathogen, and thrips themselves. We found evidence of efficacy against the thrips-transmitted pathogen and are pursuing additional funding from the USDA to expand this work.   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol>   Mauck: Follow-up work will focus on mechanisms of virus resistance, including looking at effects on virus titers, dosage effects, and expression of defense genes.   Objective 3b. Develop procedures for rearing, storing, quality control and release of natural enemies, and conduct experimental releases to assess feasibility. <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol> </li> </ul> Andreas: Our research group is refining knotweed psyllid, A. itadori, rearing for field releases. Began rearing the knotweed psyllid Murakami strain, in addition to the Hokkaido and Kyushu strains. Released 47,500 psyllids at hybrid and giant knotweed sites across western Washington. We assessed multiple release techniques and will survey for psyllid overwintering in 2025.   Dillman: We have been optimizing freezing procedures for a new species of entomopathogenic nematode from Thailand, this would be useful for long-term storage. We are also working to develop genetic manipulation techniques in currently available EPNs.   Leppla: Trichopoda pennipes, a tachinid fly, parasitizes A. tristis and other coreids in the Southeast, along with the southern green stinkbug, Nezara viridula, and additional species of pentatomids. It also frequently oviposits on the eastern leaffooted bug, Leptoglossus phyllopus, another coreid. Therefore, three host-determined strains of T. pennipes seemed to occur from coreids in the Northeast, pentatomids in the South, and bordered plant bug in California. To determine if T. pennipes from these host species are host-determined strains, mated females were given a choice between A. tristis, N. viridula, and L. phyllopus adults for oviposition. The females oviposited primarily on their parental host species for 1-2 generations. Mitochondrial DNA analysis revealed separate markers for two parasitoid lineages, one from both N. viridula and L. phyllopus and another from only L. phyllopus. Littlefield: A colony of the oxeye daisy root moth, Dichrorampha aeratana, has been initiated at the containment facility at Montana State University. CABI, Switzerland collected and shipped a total of 1,200 eggs to Montana State in 2023 and 2024. In 2023 larvae were transferred to plants, then overwintered in cold storage. Thirty-three adults (50:50 male: female) emerged from mid- May to June. Approximately 495 larvae were transferred to oxeye daisy plants. These were supplemented in 2024 with additional eggs from CABI. Infested plants were removed from our greenhouse and are being acclimated for overwintering. Dichrorampha aeratana was recommended for release by Technical Advisory Group on the Biological Control of Weeds in 2022. In 2024, a biological assessment was reviewed by the US Fish & Wildlife Service for any threatened or endangered species concerns and release documentation has been submitted for Tribal consultation.   Mauck: We continued work to understand the biological characteristics of frass and how they change over time. We have monitored frass elemental composition and have isolated chitin with a pilot procedure. We obtained additional funding from a Specialty Crop Block Grant to continue this work based on initial W5185 funding.   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol>   Leppla: Trichopoda pennipes has considerable potential as an augmentative biological control agent, parasitizing insects from at least six true bug families: Coreidae, Largidae, Pentatomidae, Scutelleridae, Pyrrhocoridae, and Alydidae, with species from 15 genera. However, T. pennipes causes high levels of parasitism in some hosts, locations and cropping systems but not others. Therefore, research is being conducted to determine how to produce T. pennipes for augmentative biological control of specific pest stink bugs. The research objectives are: 1) design and test efficient and reliable systems for rearing host pentatomids and coreids for producing host-specific T. pennipes lines and 2) determine the preference of T. pennipes for alternative pentatomid and coreid hosts and associated host suitability. Studies are needed on a range of these parasitoid-host relationships, including how genetic and phenotypic variation of the host affects parasitoid host selection and suitability.   Littlefield: A D. aeratana colony will continue to be maintained and supplemented at Montana State University. Rearing methods will continue to be improved. Initial releases will be made in Gallatin County, MT. Effective release methods (larval transfers verse release of adults) will be compared. Subsequent releases are planned at multiple locations in western Montana with varying elevations, latitudes, and habitats to determine the optimum conditions for establishment and efficacy of D. aeratana.     Objective 3c. Implement augmentation programs and evaluate efficacy of natural enemies.   <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests</li> </ul>   <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol>   Dillman: We have sequenced the genome of Steinernema hermaphroditum, an entomopathogenic nematode that could be useful in biological control. We hope to publish the results of that analysis soon.   Skinner: A field trial of biopesticides for Fusarium was initiated, testing RootShield Plus WP; RootShield Plus G; Zerotol 2.0; and Terragrow, using various treatment methods: dip, soil drench, and controls with tap water and untreated controls. Treatments were evaluated based on saffron flower abundance and yield measured throughout the blooming season; number of plants with characteristic symptoms of fungal infection; number and size of secondary corms and occurrence of disease and bulb mites; and leaf length. Small differences in saffron yield were detected among treatments in yrs 1 and 2, though differences were not significant. There also was no evidence of Fusarium infection in any treatments. Therefore, there is not sufficient evidence to recommend use of these products to enhance saffron production or prevent disease. Data from these plots will be collected for the next 4 years to determine treatment persistence. The trial was repeated in 2023 and 2024.   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol>   Skinner: In cooperation with USDA-ARS, molecular analysis is underway to determine if any of the myco-based products are colonizing the corm roots. Saffron is a comparatively new crop for the US, and many questions remain on how to grow it. Our semi-permanent plots will provide excellent long-term data on annual yield variation due to weather fluctuations and other variables.     Objective 4: Evaluate Environmental and Economic Impacts and Raise Public Awareness of Biological Control.   Objective 4a. Evaluate the environmental and economic impacts of biological control agents.   <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests</li> </ul>   <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol> Adams: Our lab has shared biocontrol efforts and results at stakeholder meetings (4 per year) and in weekly newsletters shared with a grower listserv, and in extension publications.   Crowder: Our study connected researchers from 20 states on biological control of brown marmorated stink bug. Our work can guide future releases of T. japonicus and can be used to prioritize conservation of Nosema.   Jabbour: We worked to describe the introduction history of Bathyplectes curculionis, to better understand the present status of this biocontrol agent of alfalfa weevil. This work was presented at the Entomological Society of America North Central branch meeting in 2024.   Lara: During 2024, the establishment of T. japonicus and its impact on target H. halys populations were tracked at urban and agricultural field sites across various California counties with support from the University of California. This project is still underway. Rankin: As part of our quantification of pest predation, we also aim to assess the ecological and economic impacts of the predators. This involves quantifying response of prey populations (both target pest taxa and non-pest, native taxa) to predatory pressure in the field. In addition to quantifying correlations between pest and predator populations, we aim to evaluating predators’ contributions to ecosystem services and using genomic methods to identify cryptic trophic links in invaded food webs. These efforts aim to further our understanding of trophic dynamics in natural and agroecosystems in California and the Pacific. These efforts are ongoing.   <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol>   Jabbour: We are preparing a publication for the public that describes the introduction history of B. curculionis.   Objective 4b. Develop and implement outreach activities for biological control programs. <ul> <li>Arthropod or weed pests <ol> <li>Degree to which objective has been accomplished:</li> </ol> </li> </ul> Adams: Our lab has held annual field days to discuss biocontrol efforts with stakeholders. These efforts are ongoing. Andreas: Ten weed biocontrol related presentations were provided at conferences, workshops, and university guest lectures. Pesticide re-certification credits were provided at four events. Hoddle: During this reporting period three meeting were organized. Two meetings (were jointly organized with CAPCA (California Association of Pest Control Advisers) branches in Ventura and San Diego Counties. Meeting content covered the biology and management of invasive pests of importance to agriculture, and urban and natural areas. Aspects of biological control programs were discussed where relevant (Ventura, CA, 97 meeting attendees, 20 June 2024; Temecula, CA, 58 meeting attendees, 28 August 2024). A third meeting focused on the biology and management of South American palm weevil, Rhynchophorus palmarum.UCR-UCCE 2024 South American Palm Weevil Workshop (Bonita, CA, 65 attendees, 22 October 2024). 29 extension presentations were given on biological control of pests during 2024.   Heraty: As part of our NSF project, we developed online modules that explain parasitoids to high school students, Master Gardeners and other venues (<a href="http://outreach.chalcid.org/)">http://outreach.chalcid.org/).</a> The approach is to teach more upper-division students or adults about the importance of parasitoids in biological control. We developed outreach materials to teach about chalcidoids and other parasitic Hymenoptera in the classroom. The idea is to develop independent modules for classrooms centered on yellow pan trap ‘observatories’ to discuss ‘true’ biodiversity. Our ideas for outreach were vetted through a broad group of local teachers, and extension researchers at UC Riverside and Texas A&M University. We developed an online PowerPoint presentation, with audio, on biodiversity of parasitic Hymenoptera that we have been able to get introduced into high school curriculums on ecology. Lara: In July 2024, a biological control and IPM workshop was co-organized with the University of California in Monterey County. The workshop provided pest research updates to students training to become future farmers.   LeBeck: Maintained an association website to aid in networking for the commercial biocontrol industry. Maintained a database of all commercially produced natural enemies for sale in North America for biocontrol in IPM systems. Co-organized a symposium session about the status of commercial biological control worldwide for the IOBC International IPM Conference held in Costa Rica (summer 2024).   Skinner: We have an active outreach program to share information about saffron cultivation in general, reaching over 1,000 growers annually. This includes reporting results from this research as they become available. While our primary objectives deal with IPM in saffron production, we realize new saffron growers need help with many aspects of establishing saffron as a crop within   a diversified farm operation. Therefore, our outreach activities are critical for supporting these pioneer growers. It also answers questions about infection by Fusarium or bulb mites, which are problems in onion, garlic and various ornamental bulb plants (lilies, tulips, etc.). We also continue to host IPM workshops with presentations on biocontrol and work with growers in high tunnels and greenhouses, with a strong focus on enhancing biocontrol efficacy in commercial settings. <ol> <li>Incomplete work or areas needing further investigation:</li> </ol>   Hoddle: Development and delivery of outreach activities will require constant work as new invasive pest problems need addressing.   Skinner: A saffron workshop will be held in March 2025 to continue to discuss the potential of soil treatments to enhance saffron production. A workshop is scheduled for January 2025 on greenhouse IPM, which will include presentations on biological control of aphids. An online webinar will be held for New Americans in March 2025. A hands-on session on biological control in ornamentals will be held in Oct. 2025.   <ol start="2"> <li>USEFULNESS OF FINDINGS (According to the guidelines, impacts are the economic, social, health or environmental benefits derived by the intended Further, each impact statement should be a single sentence and should quantitatively define the benefit.)</li> </ol>   <ol> <li>Outputs/Impacts:</li> </ol>   Collier: Weed managers now have specific guidance for U. cardui. Having a tool to guide decisions about release strategies, which may better promote success, is important for increasing the benefits to the public. Weed managers in Wyoming are also now aware of the existence of a new tool for making predictions that relies on data that they can collect, giving additional incentive to collect occurrence data at release sites.   Dillman: The discovery and description of new species of entomopathogenic nematodes may lead to their effective use in biological control. Every new EPN species may help alleviate insect herbivory of important agricultural crops.   Hoddle: Impacts of work completed here have been significant and have had far reaching positive impacts. For example, demonstration that biodegradable hydrogel beads can be used to successfully control invasive Argentine ants, has resulted in CA DPR reducing restrictions on applications of beads to soil in citrus orchards. Extension meetings and presentations on biological control of invasive pests of importance to California have reached at least 739 people (estimate based on meeting attendance records). Meeting evaluations, either using SLIDO or paper questionnaires indicated that new knowledge gain increased and that the information presented at the meetings and via talks was useful and would be used for management of invasive pests (i.e., ant control, conserving natural enemies, and reductions in insecticide use).   Heraty: Chalcidoidea are economically and biologically one of the most important groups of insects, and yet very little is known of their taxonomy (identification) or relationships. Our research is identifying new potential biological control agents for use against pestiferous leafminers on citrus, whitefly on citrus, aphids on wheat and other crops, and for wasps attacking pestiferous ants. New research on cryptic species complexes (morphologically identical but reproductively and biologically distinct species) using molecular markers has tremendous potential for the identification of new biological control agents. Identification keys and other products will help other researchers to better understand the impact of these groups and identify gaps that aid in targeting new biological control agents.   Jabbour: Our work helps to integrate past and current management efforts with biological control programs.   Lara: Classical biological control agents targeting invasive arthropod pests are being reared and redistributed by CDFA’s biological control program to reduce pest densities for the benefit of specialty crop growers, land managers, and urban communities. The knowledge generated from various target pest projects (e.g., A. planipennis, H. halys, Plutella xylostella, P. absoluta) has been disseminated to more than 100 stakeholders through extension events and publications during 2024.   LeBeck: The Association of Natural Biocontrol Producers connects commercial rearing and distribution professionals, university, and USDA biocontrol scientists, and the USDA regulatory staff to maintain the availability and quality of natural enemies used in agriculture today.   Littlefield: Currently only one agent, a gall mite (A. drabae), has been approved for release in the US for the control of three hoary cress (Lepidium) species. In early summer 2019 two releases were made in Montana, and as of 2024, releases have been made at 26 sites in Montana. The mite has successfully overwintered and has established in Montana. Galls have been observed at approximately 70% of our releases, and its status of 19% of the releases is unknown (i.e. new releases). Gall material has also been provided to the Nez Perce Biocontrol Center in Idaho, the Colorado Department of Agriculture Insectary in Palisades, Wyoming Weed & Pest and University of Wyoming. Mauck: Studying frass effects on microbial communities will determine if this agricultural product can enhance organisms that control soil pathogens and boost plant immunity to pests. Studying frass and insect component effects on plant immunity to vectors and pathogens they transmit will determine if these rearing by-products can be used as part of integrated pest/disease management programs. Support from the W5185 program has enabled extramural grant applications that yielded $467,000 in additional support for discussed projects in this fiscal year.   Park: Sensory Ecology of M. borraginis contributed to the pre-release risk assessment for federally listed threatened and endangered plant species in Boraginaceae (Park et al., 2024). The UV-marking application of leaf beetles will be applied to C. basicorne to allow female weevils to explore a rosette stage of yellow starthistle for the mass-rearing technique (Park, 2024). The description of the new natural enemy for invasive box tree moths will be beneficial for implementing a proactive biological control program in the United States (Kim et al., 2024).   Rankin: Quantification of ecosystem services/disservices and identification of management strategies and landscape features associated with these services/disservices help resource managers and environmental stakeholders develop prioritization frameworks. Szucs: Ganaspis kimorum releases should result in reduction on pesticides used in soft fruit crops as they reduce populations of spotted wing drosophila on the landscape level. Aphalara itadori hybridization study provides alternative recommendations for releasing the biocontrol agent to maximize its chances of establishment. Skinner: Over 100 growers gained knowledge about saffron cultivation and specifically biological control options, of which 50% indicated they learned new information they will use in the future. Over 200 growers gained knowledge about biocontrol through our greenhouse and high tunnel IPM educational programs, of which over 75% indicated they learned new techniques they will adopt. Over 1,000 saffron growers subscribe to the UVM email list `Saffronnet” where at least 1,200 emails have been sent out distributing information about saffron cultivation around the country. Ten different factsheets produced by UVM on saffron cultivation and post-harvest handling were sent out to 500 different people over the past year, to enhance saffron production practices. The UVM Saffron website received over 4,000 hits where information on saffron cultivation is provided. The UVM Greenhouse and High Tunnel websites received over 2,000 hits where information on IPM and biological control is provided.   <ol> <li>Projected outputs or impacts:</li> </ol>   Littlefield: In Montana, A. drabae populations have significantly increased in both number of stems infested and galling intensity of plants. Mites have started to disperse from these release sites. Impacts will continue to be monitored. We will initiate redistributed mites from well- established field sites and we will continue to develop better release techniques to make this agent available over a greater geographic area. We hope to release the first biocontrol agent (the root moth, D. aeratana) on oxeye daisy in 2025 (pending release permit).   Park: Improving mass-rearing protocol of C. basicorne by topically applying insect hormones and changing gut microbial diversity.   Skinner: Saffronnet, UVM's saffron listserv, will continue to meet grower needs with regard to sound cultivation methods. The UVM Entomology Research Lab will continue to maintain email lists and websites to disseminate information on biological control. We continue to have an active outreach program to share information about saffron cultivation and IPM specifically, reaching 1,000's of growers annually. This outreach includes reporting results from this research as they become available, and general information on biological control in protected environments.

Publications

<h1>1.  PUBLICATIONS ISSUED AND MANUSCRIPTS APPROVED</h1> (Any common format is acceptable here. Publication date should be within the last year) <ol> <li>Andreas, J.E., et al., 2024. Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatum): Biology and Management in the Western NAISMA, Milwaukee, WI. NAISMA-IPM-2024-2- POISON HEMLOCK.</li> <li>Andreas, E., et al., 2024. Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis): History and Ecology in North America. In: R.L. Winston, Ed. Biological Control of Weeds in North America. NAISMA, Milwaukee, WI. NAISMABCW-2024-10-FIELD BINDWEED-P.</li> </ol> https://bugwoodcloud.org/resource/files/31489.pdf <ol start="3"> <li>Andreas, E., et al., 2024. Field Bindweed Biocontrol Agents: History and Ecology in North America. In: R.L. Winston, Ed. Biological Control of Weeds in North America. NAISMA, Milwaukee, WI. NAISMA-BCW-2024-10-FIELD BINDWEED-A.</li> </ol> https://bugwoodcloud.org/resource/files/31490.pdf <ol start="4"> <li>Baniya , et al., 2024. Steinernema adamsi n. sp. (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae), a new entomopathogenic nematode from Thailand. Journal of Parasitology 110(1): 22-39. https://doi.org/10.1645/23-60</li> <li>Bitume, E.V., et al., 2024. Establishment of the wasp Tetramesa romana for biological control of Arundo donax in northern California and the role of release plot Biol. Control 192:105489. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2024.105489</li> <li>Cong, L., et al., 2024. Determination of the relationship between the numbers of Argentine ant, Linepithema humile, on irrigation pipes and tree trunks to facilitate automated monitoring in Southern CA citrus orchards. J. Econ. Entomol: https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toae279</li> <li>Conlong, E., et al., 2024. Chapter 7: Insect Mass Rearing for IPM Applications, in: Karsten, M., Terblanche, J. S. (Eds.), Principles of Integrated Pest Management: A Southern African Perspective. CABI, Wallingford, UK.</li> <li>Cruaud, , et al., 2024. The Chalcidoidea bush of life – a massive radiation blurred by mutational saturation. Cladistics 40:34-63. https://doi.org/10.1111/cla.12561</li> <li>Denver, D.R., et al., 2024. Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita, a biocontrol nematode species, infects and increases mortality of Monadenia fidelis, a non-target terrestrial gastropod species endemic to the Pacific Northwest of North America. PLoS One 19:e0298165. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298165</li> </ol>   <ol start="10"> <li>Frey, M.A., et al., 2024. Introduction and spread of the wrinkled snail, Xeroplexa intersecta (Poiret, 1801) (Geomitridae) in the Pacific Northwest of North Am. Malacol. Bull. https://doi.org/10.4003/006.041.0101</li> <li>Gómez-Marco, F., et al., 2024. Proactive biological control of spotted lanternfly: parasitism and host feeding behavior of Anastatus orientalis (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae) on Lycorma delicatula (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) egg Biol. Control 195:105551.5. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2024.105551</li> <li>Herreid, S. and Jabbour, R. Accepted. “Chalcidoidea as Hyperparasitoids” In: Heraty,</li> </ol> J.M. and Woolley, J.B. (eds) Chalcidoidea of the World, CABI, Wallingford, <ol start="2024"> <li>Herreid, J.S., Rand, T.A., Cockrell, D.M., Peairs, F., and Jabbour, R, 2024. On-farm harvest timing effects on alfalfa weevil across the Intermountain West region of the</li> <li>Frontiers in Insect Science 4:1324044. https://doi.org/10.3389/finsc.2024.1324044</li> <li>Hogg, , et al., 2024. Developing proactive control options for an invasive tomato pest. CAPCA 27:40-44.</li> <li>Kim, S., et al., 2024. A new species of Braunsia (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Agathidinae), a natural enemy of Cydalima perspectalis (Lepidoptera, Crambidae) from South Korea: species desciption and notes on its J. Hymenopt. Res. 97:915-936. https://doi.org/10.3897/jhr.97.135728</li> <li>Kresslein, , et al., (in press). Nomenclatural spring cleaning: tidying Aphelinidae of taxa that do not spark joy, and a new species of Prococcobius Hayat (Aphelinidae: Coccophaginae). J. Nat. Hist.</li> <li>Leppla, C., et al., 2024. Status and Trends of Biological Control Research, Extension, and Education in the United States. Ann. Ent. Soc. Amer. 117:1-</li> <li>https://doi.org/10.1093/aesa/saae005</li> <li>Mc Donnell, R.J., et al., 2024. Slugs: A Guide to the Invasive and Native Fauna of California. 2nd UCANR Publications. https://anrcatalog.ucanr.edu/pdf/8336.pdf</li> <li>McDonald-Howard, K-L., et al., 2024. An investigation into the combination of the parasitic nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita and cedarwood oil to control pestiferous Crop Prot 179:106601. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cropro.2024.106601</li> <li>Milosavljevic, I., et al., 2024. 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