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The separation of two hymenopteran parasitoids, Tersilochus obscurator and Tersilochus microgaster (Ichneumonidae),

H Barari1, A W Ferguson, R W Piper

  • 1Plant and Invertebrate Ecology Division, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2JQ, UK.

Bulletin of Entomological Research
|July 29, 2005
PubMed
Summary

Tersilochus obscurator and Tersilochus microgaster, parasitoids of oilseed rape pests, are distinct species. Morphological and genetic data confirm their separation, aiding in pest management strategies.

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Area of Science:

  • Entomology
  • Agricultural Science
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Tersilochus obscurator and Tersilochus microgaster are key larval endoparasitoids of important stem-mining pests in European winter oilseed rape.
  • Morphological differentiation between these two parasitoid species is challenging.
  • Accurate identification is crucial for understanding their roles in biological control and for effective pest management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To clarify the taxonomic status and distinctness of Tersilochus obscurator and Tersilochus microgaster.
  • To develop reliable identification methods using a combination of genetic, morphometric, and ecological data.
  • To assess the host range and phenology of these parasitoids in relation to their pest species.

Main Methods:

  • Genetic analysis using mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequencing.
  • Morphometric analysis of two key characters: ovipositor sheath to first metasomal tergite ratio and sternaulus extent on the mesopleuron.
  • Ecological data collection including host rearing and emergence trap monitoring across UK and German populations.

Main Results:

  • Distinct and invariable COI sequences confirmed Tersilochus obscurator and Tersilochus microgaster as separate species.
  • Morphometric character ranges showed overlap, but species identification was possible for over 96% of specimens without host or phenological data.
  • Significant differences in emergence phenology were observed, with T. microgaster emerging earlier than T. obscurator in the UK.

Conclusions:

  • Molecular techniques, specifically COI sequencing, provide definitive species identification for closely related parasitoids.
  • Morphometric characters, despite overlap, offer a practical method for distinguishing most specimens in field populations.
  • Understanding the phenology and distinctness of these parasitoids is vital for optimizing biological control of oilseed rape pests.