Physiological host range of Trissolcus mitsukurii, a candidate biological control agent of Halyomorpha halys in Europe

The invasive stink bug Halyomorpha halys, native to East Asia, is a severe agricultural pest of worldwide importance, and chemical insecticides are largely sprayed for its control. Negative impact failures management led consider classical biological control as one the most promising methods in long-term perspective. Asian egg parasitoid Trissolcus japonicus main candidate biocontrol agent H. but more recently second species, mitsukurii, which shares area origin with has drawn special attention after adventive populations were found Europe. Despite recent detection, intentional release or redistribution bound approval national petitions, requires detailed risk analyses. With aim providing contribution future development assessment purposes, here we present first study on physiological (fundamental) host range T. mitsukurii Tests conducted different hemipterans common Southern Europe, using three experimental designs, revealed oligophagous range, limited Pentatomoidea comparable displayed by under similar laboratory conditions. In addition coevolved successfully parasitized majority tested pentatomid species scutellerid, although highly variable emergence rates. Notably high parasitization rates detected Acrosternum heegeri Dolycoris baccarum. Host sizes positively affected size female load. Although might be halys further studies (e.g., ecology, field parasitism) needed non-target risks.