First host record of the parasitoid wasp Meteorus pulchricornis (Braconidae) from larvae of the Forest Ringlet butterfly Dodonidia helmsii (Nymphalidae)

Evidence of a new parasitoid association affecting a rare endemic New Zealand butterfly

Abstract

First confirmed host record of the adventive parasitoid Meteorus pulchricornis developing from larvae of the endemic Forest Ringlet butterfly (Dodonidia helmsii) at Mahakirau Forest Sanctuary, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand. The record is supported by field observations, photographic documentation of the parasitised larva and suspended cocoon, and successful emergence of the adult parasitoid. This observation documents a previously unreported parasitoid association for D. helmsii and contributes to understanding ecological pressures affecting this rare endemic butterfly.

Keywords:
Meteorus pulchricornis, Dodonidia helmsii, parasitoid-host association, Forest Ringlet butterfly, Lepidoptera parasitoids, Braconidae, New Zealand endemic species.