01 Oca 2026 Perşembe
Oomyzus hirsutae sp. nov. (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) from India, a parasitoid of Trioza hirsuta (Hemiptera: Triozidae) causing deformity in the leaves of Terminalia arjuna
Abstract : Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) is an ecologically and economically significant tree species in India, valued for its medicinal, environmental, and commercial importance. In Uttarakhand, this tree is severely affected by the psyllid pest Trioza hirsuta (Crawford) (Hemiptera: Triozidae), which causes extensive leaf damage, including longitudinal rolling and deformation. During the present study, a new parasitoid species, Oomyzus hirsutae sp. nov. (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Eulophidae), was recorded in association with T. hirsuta. This study aims to describe the taxonomy of this newly recorded parasitoid and explore its potential as a natural biocontrol agent. The new species O. hirsutae was reared from psyllid-affected leaves of T. arjuna. Detailed morphological descriptions and diagnostic features are provided, distinguishing it from related Indian Oomyzus species. An updated identification key for Indian Oomyzus species is included to facilitate rapid and precise identification. Preliminary field observations suggest that O. hirsutae may parasitize T. hirsuta at varying infestation levels and may play a role in reducing pest populations, although further field and laboratory studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness. The discovery of O. hirsutae adds to the known parasitoid diversity in India and may have potential in integrated pest management (IPM) for T. arjuna. By possibly contributing to the natural suppression of T. hirsuta populations, O. hirsutae could support sustainable, economically viable, and eco-friendly pest management strategies. Further ecological and biological research is recommended to evaluate its efficiency as a biocontrol agent under natural and managed conditions.