Use of the Malaise trap to assess the biodiversity of parasitoids (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) in Israel

Abstract

This article presents data on the species diversity of eulophids of Israel (63 species from 25 genera), following a one-year study using a Malaise trap. These data are compared with the existing material in Israel, identified over the course of 50 years (44 species from 27 genera). The use of the Malaise trap is a promising method, especially in areas with high aridity. The bimodal seasonal dynamics in the number of specimens was determined. The Shannon index of diversity (H) varies as does the number of specimens and species, diminishing in summer and increasing from October to January. The seasonal fluctuations in Eulophidae parasitoids were recorded in Israel for the first time. The reasons are discussed for these fluctuations, which are associated with a high level of biodiversity (H) and inhomogeneity (low J) in the Eulophidae.

To cite: Yefremova, Z., Kravchenko, V., Strakhova, I. & Yegorenkova, E. 2014 [2013]. Use of the Malaise trap to assess the biodiversity of parasitoids (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) in Israel. Israel Journal of Entomology 43: 81–89.