Biocontrol introduction
Target pest: Aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Agent introduced: Plesiochrysa ramburi (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) = Chrysopa ramburi
Imported:
1928
Import source:
Australia via California, USA
Import notes:
Cameron et al. (1989) - in December 1928, 21 P. ramburi [as Chrysopa ramburi] cocoons were received from California, USA, originating from material collected in Australia between August 1927 and February 1928. They were taken to the Cawthron Institute in Nelson. Ten adults emerged, but these soon died and no eggs were obtained. There is some evidence that several earlier importations of ‘Chrysopa sp.’ against mealybugs (Pseudococcidae) were, in fact, P. ramburi [see the Chrysopa sp. against Pseudococcus viburni, P. calceolariae and P. longispinus introduction records].
Released:
Cameron et al. (1989) - not released.
General comments:
Cameron et al. (1989) - of the large number of exotic aphids present in New Zealand, five important field and fruit crop species were initially considered as the targets for biocontrol in the second phase (from 1965) of introductions of beneficial insects, although it is recognised that many other species which attack host plants in New Zealand can be of sporadic or regional importance. Those five species are: Brevicoryne brassicae [cabbage aphid], Myzus persicae [green peach aphid], Rhopalosiphum padi [bird cherry-oat aphid], Sitobion miscanthi [Indian grain aphid] and Macrosiphum euphorbiae [potato aphid]. [Aphid pests that have been targeted by specific biocontrol agents in New Zealand are: Acyrthosiphon kondoi (bluegreen lucerne aphid), Acyrthosiphon pisum (pea aphid) Cavariella aegopodii (carrot-willow aphid), Eriosoma lanigerum (woolly apple aphid), Hyperomyzus lactucae (sowthistle aphid) Metopolophium dirhodum (rose-grain aphid), Myzus persicae (green peach aphid), Therioaphis trifolii (spotted alfalfa aphid), Tuberculatus annulatus (oak aphid) and Tuberolachnus salignus (giant willow aphid). See the introduction records for these target species for details.]
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.
