Integrating Classical Biological Control with Plant Health in the Urban Forest    (View PDF)

T. D. Paine, J. G. Millar, T. S. Bellows, L. M. Hanks, and J. R. Gould

Abstract: Classical biological control is defined as a process of identification and introduction of natural enemies of pest species for the purpose of reducing the population size of the damaging species. Introduction of a parasitic wasp and a predaceous beetle has reduced populations of the ash whitef ly by 10,00-fold in landscape trees in California. It is hoped that similar introductions of parasitic wasps to control the eucalyptus longhorned borer will be successful in reducing tree mortality. However, choosing the proper species of Eucalyptus for site conditions, proper water management to maintain optimum tree vigor, and proper tree maintenance will reduce the risk of attack by this borer. Plant health care is critical to enhance tree resistance and limit tree susceptibility. The combination of maintaining vigorous tree growth and limiting the number of insect pests in the environment through the action of natural enemies provides a long-term approach to tree protection.

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https://doi.org/10.48044/jauf.1993.021