Laboratory Techniques for Rearing Blepharipa pratensis,1 a Tachinid Parasite of Gypsy Moth2

Abstract
Laboratory-reared 5th and 6th stage gypsy moth larvae were fed Blepharipa pratensis (Meigen) eggs placed on gypsy moth diet to induce parasitization. Laboratory-reared B. pratensis laid an avg of 900 eggs/female. Utilizing survival estimates for each life stage, the ratio of increase in egg laying females for a generation reared in the laboratory was 1:34. Some eggs retained viability when stored at 0°-2°C and 40% RH for up to 4 wk. Pupae stored at 0°-2°C and 100% RH were held successfully for 3 mo beyond the normal adult eclosion period. By proper timing of adult eclosion and egg feeding, the period for biological study of the parasite was extended for 3-4 mo.

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