The parasitoid complex of diamondback moth, <i>Plutella xylostella</i> (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), in Canada: impact and status

Abstract Diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), a globally important pest of Brassicaceae crops, migrates into all provinces Canada annually. Life tables were used to determine the mortality levels contributed by parasitoid complexes associated with diamondback moth in British Columbia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and insular Newfoundland. Overall, populations showed high generational (&gt; 90%) provinces, although parasitism generally low. The net reproductive rate increase was less than 1.0 (populations declined) both years Columbia each two Newfoundland but it greater three Island. Lower found Island (3.0–6.3%) compared other (8.4–17.6%, except one year Columbia). Diadegma insulare main larval found; present provinces. Microplitis plutellae Columbia. Oomyzus sokolowskii Ontario. community documented from sentinel sampling diverse that through destructive sampling. Hypotheses are provided explain presence major parasitoids. Increasing would have largest effect on population growth Canada.