The Effects of Flowers on the Longevity and Fecundity of Two Native Parasites 1 of the European Pine Shoot Moth 2 in Ontario 3

Abstract

A study was made of the effects of feeding on various flowers on the longevity of Exeristes comstockii Cresson and the longevity and fecundity of Hyssopus thymus Girault. Both species are important native ectoparasites of Rhyacionia buoliana (Schiffermueller) at times, and their feeding on many species of flowers significantly increases the longevity of females over that of starved controls. The fecundity of H. thymus females fed on various flowers was at least comparable to that of honey-fed females in most cases, and in some was significantly greater. The implications of the presence of flowering plants within pine plantations and the success of parasites are discussed and the establishment and encouragement of flowering plants in plantations are recommended.