Spatio-temporal Distribution of Beskia aelops (Walker) (Diptera: Tachinidae) and its Potential for the Biocontrol of Oebalus poecilus (Dallas) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)

Oebalus poecilus is the most serious insect pest of rice in many South American countries. Presently, control of O. poecilus is wholly by the application of monocrotophos and most farmers use insecticides. Tachinid parasitoids are possible components in an IPM programme and their spatio-temporal dynamics were investigated for the first time over four crop seasons.

Keywords:

• Small Rice Stinkbug
• Oebalus Poecilus
• Beskia Aelops
• Rice
• Integrated Pest Management