Population Trend, Host Susceptibility and Damage Study on the Eucalyptus Gall Wasp Ophelimus maskelli (Ashmead) (Hym., Eulophidae) in Jordan

Results showed that there are three generations per year for the eucalyptus gall wasp Ophelimus maskelli (Ashmead) (Hym., Eulophidae) in Jordan. It was found that the pest is active during spring, summer and early autumn; starting from March to late November. Low parasitism rate was noticed against this pest not exceeded 9%. Eucalyptus camaldulensis was the most susceptible eucalyptus species to the pest and E. torquata was the most resistant species among the seven investigated species grown in Jordan. The pest is widely distributed in Jordan due to the wide distribution of the susceptible E. camaldulensis allover the country. More than 90% reduction in eucalyptus stem diameter increment was recorded due to 90% of pest infestation for plants of three year-old and less compared with the control. Therefore, searching for effective natural enemies and introducing resistant plant species for controlling this serious pest is of vital importance.