Biological control of leek moth through the release of trichogramma wasps in organic leek production in Québec

Description

An initial laboratory phase was aimed at comparing the efficacy of two parasites T. brassicae and T. ostriniae on leek moth. The purpose of a second, two-year phase, conducted at the Organic Agriculture Innovation Platform in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, is to test the ability of both parasites to reduce leek moth damage in the field compared to a control. A technical and economic analysis will look at the costs and benefits of trichogramma releases.

Objective(s)

• Determine in the lab and the field the capacity of two species of trichogramma wasps raised commercially in Québec (T. brassicae and T. ostriniae) to parasitize leek moth eggs and reduce larval populations and the damage they cause on organic leeks
• Develop a cost-effective, ecofriendly control strategy that protects natural enemies