Biocontrol introduction
Target pest: Pseudococcus calceolariae (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) = Pseudococcus citrophilus, Pseudococcus fragilus, Pseudococcus gahani, Pseudococcus similans, citrophilus mealybug
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.’ were, in fact, P. ramburi [see the Chrysopa sp. against P. calceolariae introduction record].
Released:
Cameron et al. (1989) - not released.
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.