New Faunal Records of Trichogrammatidae (Hymenoptera) Egg Parasitoids of Lepidopteran Pests in Cotton Agroecosystems

Abstract

Egg parasitoids belonging to the family Trichogrammatidae (Hymenoptera) are recognized as highly effective biological control agents against a wide range of lepidopteran pests in agricultural ecosystems. In cotton agroecosystems, these parasitoids contribute significantly to the natural suppression of bollworms and other economically important moth pests by attacking their eggs and preventing larval establishment. Despite their ecological importance, information regarding the diversity and distribution of Trichogrammatidae species in many cotton-growing regions remains limited. The present study was conducted to document new faunal records and assess the diversity of Trichogrammatidae egg parasitoids associated with lepidopteran pests in cotton agroecosystems. Field surveys were carried out across major cotton cultivation areas during different cropping seasons, and parasitized lepidopteran eggs were collected from infested cotton plants. Emerging parasitoids were reared under laboratory conditions and identified using detailed morphological characteristics and standard taxonomic keys. Selected specimens were further analyzed using molecular techniques to confirm species identity and evaluate phylogenetic relationships. The results revealed the occurrence of several Trichogrammatidae species associated with major lepidopteran pests of cotton, including multiple new regional records not previously reported from the surveyed areas. Morphological and molecular analyses demonstrated considerable taxonomic diversity among the collected parasitoids. Some species showed broad host associations across different pest species, whereas others exhibited greater host specificity. Variations in parasitoid abundance and distribution were influenced by environmental conditions, crop growth stage, and host availability. The identified parasitoids displayed strong ecological potential for natural regulation of lepidopteran pest populations in cotton fields. The findings of this study contribute important information to the taxonomy, biodiversity, and distribution of Trichogrammatidae in cotton production systems. Documentation of new faunal records enhances current understanding of parasitoid diversity and supports the development of sustainable biological control and integrated pest management strategies in cotton agroecosystems.