Collection of Solitary Parasitic Wasps for Preparation of Venom.

An investigation on the mechanism of action and chemical composition of parasitic wasp venoms possessing paralysing activity, was initiated. The venoms of three wasp species were investigated more or less extensively, viz. Microbracon hebetor Say, Philanthus triangulum F. and Anoplius viaticus L.. The venoms of M. hebetor and P. triangulum differ markedly with respect to chemical properties and specificity for different insect species. The venom of A. viaticus may have a quite different mechanism of action and indications have been found that it acts on the central nervous system where it may have an aspecific effect. Microbracon hebetor Say is easily reared in large numbers in the laboratory, but unfortunately the active compound appears to be a very labile protein. Philanthus triangulum F. cannot be reared in large numbers but must be collected in the field. At present this species is only abundant in the southern parts of Europe at relatively few sites.