Field Cage Assessment of the Potential for Establishment of Rogas indiscretus1 Against the Gypsy Moth 23

Abstract

The value of outdoor field cages in assessing the potential for establishment of exotic parasites of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.), is demonstrated, using Rogas indiscretus Reardon as a model. Aspects of its laboratory biology are presented. This Indian parasite was found to produce 3 generations/yr in Connecticut (CT) in gypsy moth larvae artificially supplied as hosts in field cages. It overwintered successfully as a diapausing larva within a mummy and emerged in synchrony with the appearance of young gypsy moth larvae the following spring. Alternate hosts would be needed by this parasite in CT during July and Sept. Based on field cage studies, the availability of suitable alternate hosts at these appropriate periods appears to be the limiting factor for establishment of this parasite in North America.