Introduction of Aphidius rosae into Australia for biological control of the rose aphid (Macrosiphum rosae) / by Jorg Thomas Kitt.

Abstract

This thesis deals with the introduction of "Aphidius rosae" as a classical biological control agent into South-Eastern Australia. Appropriate host specificity tests are carried out. Laboratory experiments are also completed to gain a better understanding of the interactions between host and parasitoid in the field. The study aims to monitor the performance of the control agent in the Adelaide environment for the first two years after initial release. It is also planned to invent an experimental field technique to estimate the impact of the control agent on rose aphid populations.