Parasitism preference of Chalcid hymenopteran Dirhinus giffardii (Silvestri) confirms higher parasitism against housefly (Musca domestica) (Diptera: Muscidae) pupae.

Abstract

The housefly, Musca domestica (Diptera: Muscidae), is capable of transmitting many pathogens that cause severe diseases in humans and animals. Mostly the management tactics rely on synthetic chemicals, but these chemicals creates lethal effects on biological ecosystem. For natural and safe options, bio-control strategy is one of the choice. The present study was a part of such effort to use this strategy and validate the biological performance of the potential pupal parasitoid Dirhinus giffardii (Silvestri) against house fly and provide alternative and safe control of filthy flies. This is the first report on parasitism potential and preference of D. giffardii against house fly. The D. giffardii, early reported as an effective pupal parasitoid of tephritid flies, here in the case presented, showed overall 70% reduction in the house fly population by parasitizing pupae. The parasitism efficiency and longevity of hymenopteran parasitoid was remarkably noted two-fold higher and one-fold more female production on house fly pupae as compared to primary hosts (Tephritids). Furthermore, sex ratio of the resultant progeny was also confirmed the dominancy of female by 74% as compared to males. Based on the novel findings we therefore conclude that D. giffardii is the best bio-control agent for controlling house flies.