UTILIZATION OF Trichogramma evanescens (WESTWOOD) (HYMENOPTERA: TRICHOGRAMMATIDAE) AS A BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AGENT AGAINST Earias insulana mouse.) IN OKRA IN NORTH SINAI

The present study aimed at the use of Trichogramma evanescans (Wesbflood)
to decrease the population of the spiny boliwon'n, Eerias insulana on okra plants in
North Sinai Governorate. Evaluation of the efficacy of T. evanescens as a controlling
agent was carried out for two successive seasons {2005 8. 2006). The percentages
of okra infestation in releasing area and control in both seasons were calculated.
One parasitoid release was made In 2005 season. The highest infestation with E.
insulane was4% in the releasing area in August and September while it was16% in
September in the controI.Percentage of reduction was'i'5 96. The lowest infestation
was 0 ‘36 and 3% in July In the releasing area and the control in September. Two
parasitoid releases were made in 2006 season. The highest infestation was1% in
June and July in the releasing area while it was 14% in control in September.
Percentage of reduction was 92.86%.The lowest infestation was 0 96 in the releasing
and control areas. It is concluded that T. avenescens bring down the infestation of E.
insuiane on okra plants in North Sinai and two parasitoid releases 1 season are
needed for bringing down okra bollworm populations.