Dipteran parasitoids as biocontrol agents

Abstract

Numerous studies conducted on a variety of temporal and spatial scales around the world show that dipteran parasitoids can exert effective control over some insect pests. This paper provides an overview of major examples of successful classical and augmentative biological control initiatives, organized by major dipteran families which include parasitoid species (i.e., Tachinidae, Phoridae, Sarcophagidae, Cryptochetidae, Bombyliidae, Syrphidae) and according to different global regions. In addition, examples of unsuccessful attempts at biological control using dipteran parasitoids are discussed, along with potential reasons for these failures. A notable drawback found during our literature review is that many parasitoids and host species are not correctly identified, and information on laboratory and field studies is rather scarce. Reproductive strategies of dipteran parasitoids and host-parasitoid associations need to be better investigated. Expanding the knowledge of these parasitoids is crucial for improving biocontrol strategies, especially against pests for which dipterans are key natural enemies.