An Innovative Larval Parasitoids Multiplication Kit

The implementation of eco-friendly bio-intensive IPM technologies required mass multiplication of bio-control agents in laboratory which is labour intensive process. The present invention is for the multiplication of entomophagous parasitic insects, Bracon species (Hymemoptera, Braconidae) directly at the targeted sites. It comprised of a platform containing insect rearing chamber(s) provided with insect multiplication media. The platform was covered with a roof for protection from rains and sunlight. This platform was connected with a telescopic arrangement for installing it in the fields. It also helped in adjusting the height of the platform in the crop fields and to have additional platform(s) on it. This arrangement provided a readily available food source and an alternative oviposition site to the parasitoid, allowing them to increase in abundance in the crop fields so that they may control the insect pest population. The individual or a group of farmers can use this kit for the multiplication of the parasitoid wasps as needed to control the insect pests damaging the field crops or storage produce. The parasitoid wasps could multiply in the kit throughout the crop season.