Biological control of the mango mealybug, Rastrococcus iceryoides (Green) (Homoptera: Pseudococcidae).
Mani M., Krishnamoorthy A., Pattar G. L.
Author Affiliation: Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta Lake P.O., Bangalore 560 089, India.
Pest Management in Horticultural Ecosystems 1 : 15-20
Abstract : Studies were conducted on natural enemy complex of the mango mealybug Rastrococcus iceryoides and the predatory potential of Cryptolaemus montrouzieri. Seven species of natural enemies were observed parasitizing/preying on the host. The parasitoids Anagyrus sp. nr. dactylopii and Coccophagus sexvittatus and the predator Cacoxenus perspicax [Domomyza perspicax] were new records. An individual C. montrouzieri consumed on an average 355 mealybug eggs or 498 nymphs during its larval development. Field releases of C. montrouzieri at 50/plant in June-July of 1992 and 1993 resulted in significant reduction in the number of mealybug-infested mango fruits.