Laura Brohm

The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) is a economically important crop in Israel’s hot, arid regions, but suffers yield losses of up to 75% due to the Lesser Date Moth (LDM), Batrachedra amydraula. Parasitoid wasps, natural enemies of many pests including the LDM, are crucial for biological control and can reduce pesticide reliance in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. This study examined parasitoid wasp species and abundance associated with LDM in nine southern Arava date orchards. Pest and wasp populations often peaked together in late May. Pesticide applications during these times reduced pest but also wasp abundance. Some orchards showed higher wasp abundance, possibly reflecting more favourable conditions for these natural enemies. The results underscore the need to conserve parasitoid wasps to strengthen biological control and enhance IPM strategies. Future research will explore enriching orchards with wildflowers to support parasitoid populations and support biodiversity, aiming to create more sustainable pest management systems in Israel’s date palm agriculture.