The Canada lily (Lilium canadense) is one of eastern Canada's most beautiful wildflowers. Its range extends into the southern US, and it is listed as threatened or vulnerable in several states. As the lily leaf beetle expands its range, it is putting populations of Canada lily at further risk.
Last week, doctoral students from the University of Montreal released the biocontrol agent Tetrastichus setifer in a population of Canada lily in Quebec that was under heavy attack from the beetle. Upon release, the agent, a tiny wasp, got right to work parasitizing beetle larvae:
Hopefully, the wasp will become established and help to control the beetle so that it does not become abundant enough to kill the lilies. Back home in our Ottawa test gardens, parasitism rates this year appear to be very close to 100%. We're even worried about not having enough lily beetles next year...imagine that!
Happy Canada Day!
Happy Canada Day!
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