Canadian Forest Service Publications
Sirex noctilio Fabricus (Hymenoptera: Symphyta). 2013. Ryan, K.; Smith, S.; Turgeon, J. (Chapter 38) Pages 263-271 in Biological Control Programmes in Canada 2001-0012. P. Mason and Dr.Gillespie, editors, Oxfordshire, U.K., CABI Press. 504 p.
Year: 2013
Issued by: Great Lakes Forestry Centre
Catalog ID: 34824
Language: English
Availability: PDF (request by e-mail)
Plain Language Summary
A book summarizing biological control programmes against insects and weeds has been published every decade or so since the early 60s. This book will cover programmes carried out between 2001 and 2012. In Chapter 38, we review the scientific literature available worldwide on a wasp that develops in the wood of pine trees. The natural distribution of Sirex noctilio (no official common name yet) includes Europe, Asia and North Africa. This insect has invaded several countries outside its native range. The CFS first discovered this wasp in Canada in 2005. We evaluated its potential pest status in Canada and North America, and compared the diversity and abundance of its natural enemies and predators in Canada to that in other parts of the world. It seems it is still too early to tell whether this insect will become a major pest in Canada. The diversity and abundance of natural enemies in Canada is similar to that found in its native range. No control program (either biological or chemical) has been initiated against this insect in Canada. The review suggests natural enemies and competitors could prevent this insect from becoming a major pest in Canada.