In 2003, a new gall-inducing wasp of the genus Ophelimus was detected in the Valparaíso Region (Chile), affecting tree plantations of Eucalyptus globulus Labill and Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh. Since then Ophelimus has been frequently detected in different plantations in Chile, covering a widespread area. A preliminary collaborative study suggests that the micro-wasp detected should be classified as a new Ophelimus species. In this paper, using an integrative approach (including genetic, morphological, and behavioral data), we addressed the delimitation and description of this new species. This study involved the use of brood adult specimens, raised at the laboratory of MIPlagas Ltda., from infested twigs of E. globulus collected in several localities between of Valparaíso and Los Lagos Regions (Chile). Morphological structures were described according to current Eulophidae taxonomic keys, as well as additional traits, such as gall morphology and behavior. Genetic characterization was implemented using a phylogenetic approach, based on a 648 bp specific fragment of the mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase I gene (COI 5 region) obtained from collected specimens and available databases (Genbank, NCBI, and BOLDSystem). Specifically, distinctive patterns of variation were detected in traits like gall and antennae morphology, growth habit trends, and a notorious polyphenism in the setae from the sub marginal vein. Overall evidence suggests that this new entity should be considered a new species in Ophelimus, which is henceforth named Ophelimus migdanorum Molina-Mercader.
El pulgón del ciprés en Chile: una revisión de la situación actual y antecedentes del control biológicoThe cypress aphid in Chile: A review of the current situation and preliminary data of the biological control
SUMMARYThe cypress aphid Cinara cupressi is considered one of the most important exotic invasive species in the world and now is present in all the national continental territory, affecting native forest species like ciprés de la cordillera (Austrocedrus chilensis) and alerce (Fitzroya cupressoides), as other exotic species used for ornamental trees in the urban area. The forest area of Chile has promoted and privileged the use of biological controls as part of the integrated pest management; so has Pauesia juniperorum been used to control C. cupressi; however, low levels of parasitism have been detected. Some aspects about the biology and behavior of C. cupressi and the biological control identified in our country are analyzed and discussed, as well as the measures implemented by the government considering that this was the first detection of a significant exotic pest associated with native forest species. It is proposed to assess, in the future, timing and level of parasitism of the biological control P. juniperorum, to determine if the parasitoid has been established in the whole territory or it is necessary to complement with other agents such as Lecanicillium lecanii or other biocontrol agents as Xenostigmus bifasciatus, which could be alternatively evaluated in order to reach a better control to reduce the populations of this aphid that threatens forest species of great value to our national heritage and some species used as ornamentals trees.
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