Trichogramma Wasp

Trichogramma spp.

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Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

+5 Beneficial

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastSoutheastMidwestSouthwestWestPacific Northwest

Habitat Preferences

gardensmeadowsforestsagricultural fieldsaquatic habitats

Taxonomic Group

Wasp

Order

Hymenoptera

Family

Trichogrammatidae

Lifecycle

The female Trichogramma wasp lays one or more eggs inside the egg of a host insect, typically a moth or butterfly. The wasp larva hatches and consumes the host egg from within, killing the developing pest. The larva then pupates inside the host egg. After 7 to 14 days, the adult wasp emerges from the now-blackened host egg. This rapid life cycle allows for up to 30 generations in a single season, making them effective biological control agents.

Overwintering Strategy

Trichogramma wasps overwinter as mature larvae or pupae within the eggs of their hosts.

Native Range

Worldwide, including North America

Attracted By

dillfennelcarrotsyarrowvaleriannectar-producing flowers

Repelled By

Broad-spectrum insecticides

Companion Planting

Planting flowering plants that provide nectar, such as those in the carrot family (dill, fennel, carrots), as well as yarrow and valerian, will attract and support Trichogramma wasp populations. This will aid in the control of caterpillar pests on nearby crops.