Programmed Releases of Spalangia Endius and Muscidifurax Raptor (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) against Estimated Populations of Musca Domestica (Diptera: Muscidae)12

Augmentative releases of Muscidifurax raptor and Spalangia endius at an installation of caged laying hens in north Florida demonstrated that M. raptor does not seek Musca domestica host pupae beneath the surface of the soil and does not function well in dry hot weather. Releases conducted with S. endius indicate that it will, under similar conditions, successfully parasitize field pupae both above and below the soil surface, but will be prevented from locating and effectively parasitizing pupae if the poultry droppings are not kept dry. Field populations of both adult and immature stages of house flies can be estimated, thereby enabling determination of parasite:host ratios and percentage parasitism.