Dipteran parasitoids as biocontrol agents

Abstract

Numerous studies conducted on a varietyof temporal and spatial scales around the world showthat dipteran parasitoids can exert effective controlover some insect pests. This paper provides an overviewof major examples of successful classical andaugmentative biological control initiatives, organizedby major dipteran families which include parasitoidspecies (i.e., Tachinidae, Phoridae, Sarcophagidae,Cryptochetidae, Bombyliidae, Syrphidae) and accordingto different global regions. In addition, examplesof unsuccessful attempts at biological control usingdipteran parasitoids are discussed, along with potentialreasons for these failures. A notable drawbackfound during our literature review is that many parasitoidsand host species are not correctly identified, andinformation on laboratory and field studies is ratherscarce. Reproductive strategies of dipteran parasitoidsand host-parasitoid associations need to be betterinvestigated. Expanding the knowledge of these parasitoidsis crucial for improving biocontrol strategies,especially against pests for which dipterans are keynatural enemies.