John Pinto

 AB   Humboldt State College, 1963

PhD  University of Illinois, 1968

 

Retired (sort of) Waldport Oregon, 2006 

Research Specialization - Systematics studies focus on the Trichogrammatidae (Hymenoptera), especially the genus Trichogramma, and the Meloidae (Coleoptera). Species of Trichogramma are among the most widely used agents for biological control of insect pests in the world. The inadequately understood systematics of the genus has  prevented efficient application. Our studies are attempting to bring the level of taxonomic knowledge to where species of Trichogramma can be realistically evaluated and utilized as successful biological control agents. Morphological, reproductive and molecular characters are being employed in hypothesizing species limits and interrelationships. A revision of the genus for North America has recently been completed. In addition to the Trichogramma work, taxonomic studies of several of the other 80 genera of Trichogrammatidae are in progress. Several of these also have significance to biological control. Because of their extremely small size, the role that these egg parasitoids play in natural and agricultural ecosystems is unappreciated. The difficulty in collecting and curating such minute wasps has resulted in their being virtually non-existent in most entomological museums. This, more than anything, has retarded progress in the systematics of the family. Consequently, considerable effort is being made to accumulate a comprehensive collection of world Trichogrammatidae. This collection is being databased and information on holdings are available.