Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Pseudococcus viburni (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) = Pseudococcus affinis, Pseudococcus obscurus, obscure mealybug

Agent introduced: Coccophagus ochraceus (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae)

Impacts on non-targets:

Cameron et al. (1989) - introduced against mealybugs [Pseudococcidae] but also attacks Saissetia oleae (black scale) in New Zealand. [Black scale is a pest in New Zealand.]

General comments:

Cameron et al. (1989) - introduced to New Zealand against mealybugs. [NB: the Cameron et al. (1989) chapter on Pseudococcidae (mealybugs) as biocontrol targets does not mention Coccophagus ochraceus as a biocontrol agent, but the chapter on Saissetia oleae (black scale) states: “Coccophagus ochraceus Howard (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), which was introduced for control of mealybugs, also parasitises S. oleae. No details of the introduction or outcome are given.]

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.