Can Trichogramma atopovirilia Oatman & Platner replaces Trichogramma galloi Zucchi for Diatraea saccharalis (Fabricius) control?

Studies on aggressiveness of parasitoids, as assessed by their parasitism against pests, used in biological-control programs are highly important to select the most suitable species and/or strain control insect pests. The present study investigated whether egg parasitoid Trichogramma galloi Zucchi, an efficient agent for sugarcane borer Diatraea saccharalis (Fabricius) Brazil, could be replaced atopovirilia Oatman & Platner, a easier mass-produce, since it has been found parasitizing D. eggs warmest region Brazil and Argentina. Three strains genus were compared: T. (ATP strain) reared factitious host Anagasta kuehniella (Zeller); isoline ATP-I, six generations; galloi, A. eggs. We measured each 72 h entire life span, rate per cluster eggs, number parasitoids emerged (parasitism viability), span. results confirmed that is best control, showing higher potential, emergence this species. Although ATP-I performed reliably all parameters, exceeded was indicated mass-rearing borer.