Biocontrol introduction
Target pest: Saissetia oleae (Hemiptera: Coccidae), black scale
Agent introduced: Metaphycus lounsburyi (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae)
Imported: 1922
Import source: Australia and possibly California, USA
Released: 1922
Release details: Small number (less than 37) from Australia released in Nelson. Californian introductions and releases are not recorded.
Establishment: Not known to have established until recovered in Auckland in 1982.
Impacts on target: Unknown
References
Cameron PJ, Hill RL, Bain J, Thomas WP (1989). A Review of Biological Control of Invertebrate Pests and Weeds in New Zealand 1874-1987. Technical Communication No 10. CAB International Institute of Biological Control. DSIR Entomology Division. 424p.