Introduction
• Release leafminer parasites (Diglyphus isaea) between leaves
• Release in the morning or in the evening
Environmental Conditions
Leafminer parasites are recommended when leaf miner infection increases.
Storage & Handling
• Storage after receipt: 1-2 days
• Storage temperature: 8-10°C/47-50° F.
Appearance
Adults leafminer parasites: size 2-3 mm, metallic green, short antennae Other stages: develop near host.
Mode of Action
Female adult parasitic wasp of Diglyphus isaea kills leaf-miner larva in the mine and lays an egg on it. The egg develops into a parasitic wasp inside the mine (but outside the leaf miner), using the dead larva as food. Host-feeding also takes place.
Visual Effect
Two weeks after introduction it is possible to see parasitization. The presence of leafminer parasites is recognized by short or stopped mines containing a dead larva. Pupae of the leafminer parasite can be seen when holding leaves up to the light.
