The role of parasitic Hymenoptera in integrated pest management in fruit orchards

Parasitic Hymenoptera are some of the most abundant natural enemies of all fruit pests. Their role is rather variable in relation to the type of agroe cosystem. Several approaches (introduction of exotic species, inoculative a nd inundative releases, measures for conservation of the existing species, etc.) can be implemented to increase the role of the parasitoids in control ling pest species. Classical biological, when applicable, as against severa l citrus pests, is still the most ecologically and economically sound metho d. The role parasitoids play in the regulation of pest populations remains uncertain, but much evidence for its importance as a regulatory factor come s from biological control programs. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All righ ts reserved.