Different parasitoid species elicit varied Argentine stem weevil, <i>Listronotus bonariensis</i> avoidance responses

Importation biological control can create new host-natural enemy responses that are different from those behaviours elicited in native ranges of the agent, and/or pest. This possibility was investigated with Argentine stem weevil (Listronotus bonariensis) presence three endoparasitoid species levels affinity to New Zealand pasture. The question posed whether exhibits species-specific or generic parasitoids. first parasitoid Microctonus hyperodae which has a coevolutionary history L. bonariensis. second, aethiopoides, similar ecological and behavioural characteristics M. hyperodae. third Aphidius colemani, attacks pasture aphids is phylogenetically remote spp. Microcosms were used examine compare bonariensis when confronted by each these showed strong similar, but very much reduced exposed aethiopoides. exhibited no measured reaction A. colmani. Therefore, response rather than response. implications all parasitoids discussed terms species’ phenotypic closeness centres origin.