Taxonomy and New Faunal Records of Braconid Wasps (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) Parasitizing Lepidopteran Pests in Vegetable Crops

Abstract

Taxonomic surveys of braconid wasps associated with lepidopteran pests in vegetable agroecosystems revealed previously unrecorded species diversity and host associations across major cropping systems. Specimens were collected from cabbage, tomato, brinjal and okra fields using sweep netting, yellow pan traps and host larval rearing techniques. Morphological examination using standard taxonomic keys supported by genitalia dissection enabled identification of multiple genera including Apanteles, Cotesia, Microplitis and Bracon spp. Molecular confirmation through COI barcode sequencing further validated species-level identification and clarified cryptic diversity within key parasitoid complexes. New faunal records were documented from several regions expanding the known distribution of braconid parasitoids in vegetable ecosystems. Field observations indicated high parasitism rates on larvae of Spodoptera litura, Helicoverpa armigera and Pieris brassicae demonstrating strong host specificity and ecological relevance in pest suppression. Seasonal abundance patterns showed peak parasitoid activity coinciding with early crop growth stages suggesting synchronization with host population dynamics. Laboratory rearing confirmed successful parasitism and development with variation in developmental duration influenced by temperature and host species. Phylogenetic analysis placed newly recorded taxa within established Indo-Australian clades supporting regional connectivity of parasitoid fauna. The study underscores the importance of integrating taxonomic and molecular approaches for accurate biodiversity assessment of parasitoids in agroecosystems. These findings highlight the potential of native braconid wasps as key biological control agents in vegetable pest management programs and emphasize conservation of parasitoid diversity through reduced pesticide exposure and habitat management strategies. Enhanced understanding of host–parasitoid interactions provides a foundation for developing sustainable integrated pest management strategies in vegetable production systems under intensifying agricultural pressures.