Biological Characteristics of Dasineura jujubifolia and Its Parasitoid Natural Enemies in Hami Region of Xinjiang (China)

Severe leaf galling by the jujube gall midge <i>Dasineura jujubifolia</i> (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) compromises photosynthesis and yield in arid-zone jujube orchards, yet Xinjiang-specific evidence to guide biological control has been scarce. Here we provide the first systematic characterization in Xinjiang (Hami, China) of <i>D. jujubifolia</i> and its parasitoid complex, integrating region-specific field surveys with gall dissection and laboratory assays. We documented five parasitoid wasps, including two species newly recorded in China-<i>Pseudotorymus samsatensis</i> (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) and <i>Baryscapus adalia</i> (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae). In Hami, the host completed 4-5 generations per year with a 19-24-day generation time. Functional roles were partitioned: <i>P. samsatensis</i> (dominant), <i>Systasis parvula</i> (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), and <i>B. adalia</i> were larval ectoparasitoids, whereas <i>Aprostocetus</i> sp. (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) and <i>Synopeas</i> sp. (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) were endoparasitoids. Time-series data revealed tight temporal synchrony between <i>P. samsatensis</i> and host peaks. Controlled experiments quantified daily emergence rhythms, diet-dependent adult longevity, and sex ratios, providing parameters to inform release timing and conservation in biological control programs. Collectively, these findings establish management-ready baselines for <i>D. jujubifolia</i> and its parasitoids in arid jujube systems and support conservation-oriented, reduced-pesticide integrated pest management (IPM).