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In this chapter we will present methods for determination of the quality of mass reared egg parasitoids. Before we describe quality control guidelines, we will first outline the development of quality control of natural enemies, summarize the basic considerations concerning management of laboratory populations, and discuss obstacles in mass rearing that may lead to deterioration of natural enemy quality. We consider a discussion of the above topics essential for understanding practical quality control guidelines, because without a proper theoretical background, relevant guidelines cannot be developed. Where possible, we have illustrated background theory with examples from the egg parasitoid literature.

In the past 100 years many exotic natural enemies have been imported, mass reared and released as biological control agents. Negative environmental effects of these releases have rarely been reported (e.g., Lynch et al. 2001). To ensure the continuing safety and positive public image of biological control, many countries are requiring risk assessment for all biological control agents. This is new for macro-organisms in inundative use, although as classical agents these have always been strictly regulated, at least for weed biocontrol. Microbial control agents have historically first been tested and applied at a small scale, and without many restrictions. Regulatory authorities first became interested in them when larger scale production and application became possible. The main worry with microbials in the beginning has been worker safety and the safety of consumers: is the production or application of these biocontrol agents safe for the personnel involved (e.g., toxic metabolites) and for the general public, in case of their usage on edible crops? As a consequence, microbial control agents have been subject to regulatory approval (e.g., EU Directive 91/414). Macroscopic organisms used in inundative control, such as nematodes, mites and insect parasitoids, usually have been exempted from these regulations.

Insects form the most diverse group of organisms, both in number of species (80 per cent of the animal kingdom) as well as in variation of biological characteristics and functions. Man has been interested mainly in two categories of insects: harmful and beneficial species. These two categories comprise only a few thousand of the millions of insect species. A vast group of insects is classified as neutral, which is a rather trivial term because these species are essential components of the world’s ecosystems, and thereby, contribute to man’ s long-term well being.