Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Pseudococcus longispinus (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) = Dactylopius adonidum, Dactylopius longispinus, Pseudococcus adonidum, longtailed 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. longispinus 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.