Objective:
To use molecular marking technology to determine the geographic origin of the species, strains, biotypes, or geographic populations of parasitic wasps that were successfully established during prior classical biological control projects.

Approach:
Assemble preserved samples representing populations of biological control agents released as part of previous biological control projects in Australia and the U.S. Use preserved samples of the same biological control agents that became successfully established in Australia and the U.S. Develop molecular markers for separating the various geographic source populations of biological control agents. Compare markers to determine which population(s) ultimately became established. Knowledge will be used to identify desirable biological and behavioral characteristics for future projects.