GENETIC AND EPIGENETIC IMPROVEMENT OF ENTOMOPHAGOUS INSECTS USED IN BIOLOGICAL CONTROL

Objective

The project aims to improve entomophagous insects for efficient biological control by laboratory selection of desirable traits including searching speed, host searching efficiency, fecundity and diurnal activity patterns. It also involves induction of parthenogenesis by use of microbes leading to increased fecundity of natural enemies. The so improved natural enemies will be field tested while the performance of both improved and original populations will be distinguished by use of appropriate genetic markers. Host resistance is recognized as a major site effect and this will be also investigated.

Programme(s)

• FP3-AIR - Specific research and technological development and demonstration programme (EEC) in the field of agriculture and agro-industry, including fisheries, 1990-1994

Topic(s)

• 212 - Pest, disease, weed and abiotic stress control

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)

Address

2 Avenue Albert Einstein
69609 Villeurbanne
France

Participants (3)

AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY OF WAGENINGEN

Netherlands

Address

Postbus 9101
6700HB Wageningen

NOPA / NOeMI Research Unit

France

Address

Inra, Blg 440
78352 Jouy-en-josas

UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI PERUGIA

Italy

Address

Piazza Dell'universita, 1
06123 Perugia