Biology of Peristenus stygicus1 from Turkey, a Potential Natural Enemy of Lygus Bugs 1 in North America

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Abstract
The braconid Peristenus stygicus Loan was recovered from a mirid, Polymerus unifasciatus (F.), in western Turkey. Under laboratory conditions the parasite was readily cultured through several generations on Lygus spp. An adult female will mate and oviposit soon after emergence. The female will attempt oviposition in all nymphal instars, but the earlier instars are more susceptible to parasitization. Usually one egg per host is laid; the egg–larval development averages about 14 days. The mature larva leaves the host and forms a cocoon in the substrate. About 14 days later the adult wasps emerge. Unlike other species in the genus, the individuals of this Turkish colony did not undergo diapause under the laboratory conditions. This species represents a new parasite for introduction into North America.

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