Observations on the heather beetle Lochmaea suturalis (Thomson) (Coleoptera,Chrysomelidae) and its parasitoids

A small population of the heather beetle Lochmaea suturalis (Thomson) in southern England was found to be parasitized by Asecodes mento (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) and by Degeeria collaris (Diptera, Tachinidae). In recent years outbreaks of L. suturalis in The Netherlands have resulted in alterations of vegetational patterns and this has caused concern. It is suggested that the possibility of biological control of the beetle by A. mento should be investigated.