Ichneumonidae (Hymenoptera) Using Extrafloral Nectar of Faba Bean (Vicia FabaL., Fabaceae) in Massachusetts

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Abstract
Sixty specimens of Ichneumonidae (Hymenoptera), representing 20 species and 4 subfamilies, fed at the extrafloral nectaries of faba bean (Vicia faba L., cv ‘Ipro’, Fabaceae) grown in replicated plots. Of those attacking lepidopterous pests, 3 species were known parasites of agricultural pests, 2 of forest insects, and 3 of both agricultural and forest pests. Eleven species had no recorded hosts. Faba bean seeded July 31st attracted large numbers of Ichneumonidae from mid-September through mid-November, may have provided food for overwintering adults of several of the species involved. Testing should continue on faba bean grown in conjunction with orchard, vegetable, and forest crops, because it can enhance soil fertility, and may help to sustain parasites of lepidopterous pests.