Biological control of Liriomyza leafminers: progress and perspective

There are more than 330 Liriomyza species (Diptera: Agromyzidae) and many are economically important pests of field crops, ornamentals and vegetables. Given the substantial economic losses associated with various aspects of Liriomyza feeding as well as the ability of these insects to rapidly develop resistance to insecticides, researchers from many countries have attempted to use biological control to manage these pests. Unfortunately, progress on the science and implementation of effective Liriomyza biological control is hampered by the literature being scattered widely and in many different languages. A primary goal of this review is to consolidate the available information and provide an analysis of the published work. Investigations of natural enemies of Liriomyza have identified approximately 140 species of parasitoids, a few species of predators (including nematodes), and some entomopathogens. Some species of parasitoids and nematodes have been mass-reared and used for biological control of Liriomyza species under confined environmental conditions. While chemical control is still used extensively, conservation biological control and inoculative releases are being adopted as a primary strategy for Liriomyza suppression in select situations.