CABBAGE BUTTERFLY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21132, 15 March 1932, Page 14

CABBAGE BUTTERFLY.

PARASITIC CONTROL. Ts the .Journal nf Agriculture for 'June, 1931, was published an article entitled " Pieris rapae: A recently- introduced Cabbage Pest," by Mr. J, Muggeridge, entomologist, Plant Research Station, giving the life-history of the insect, and methods of control. There is little doubt that Pieris rapae, which was first noticed at. Napier, lias now become well established in Hasvke s Bay, and it appears to be steadily spreading in the North Island. Specimens have, lately been received by the entomologist for identification from To I'uke, W'aiotnpu and,Dannevirke. In his article, Mr. Muggeridge mentioned Apanteles glomeratus as one of the most important insect parasites of Pieris rapae. In response to a request., the Imperial Institute of Entomology, London, has now forwarded to the Plant Research Station some 3000 puparia of Apanteles glomeratus, and this material will be used for breeding up supplies of the parasite for distribution. There are good reasons for believing that, once established, this parasite will considerably reduce the depredations of the P es k Apart from biological control, however, Pieris rapae may bo controlled by sprays.