Parasitoids Associated with Choristoneura rosaceana (Harris) in Apple Orchards of Chihuahua, Mexico

Abstract

The oblique banded leafroller, Choristoneura rosaceana (Harris) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is a phytophage causing significant economic impact to apple (Malus sylvestris (L.) Mill) trees and having some natural enemies in the Chihuahua region. The aim of the research was to collect larvae and pupae of C. rosaceana from apple orchards at Chihuahua, Mexico, and identify associated parasitoids. We collected 54 specimens of parasitoids identified to five species: Pimpla sanguinipes Cresson (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), Bracon rosaceani Muesebeck (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), Brachymeria ovata Say (Hymenoptera: Chalcidae), Eumea caesar (Aldrich) (Diptera: Tachinidae), and Actia diffidens Curran (Diptera: Tachinidae). The species are here reported for the first time as parasitoids associated with C. rosaceana in apple trees in Mexico. All are considered potential biological control agents for sustainable management of the phytophage.