Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Icerya purchasi (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae), cottony cushion scale

Agent introduced: Cryptochetum iceryae (Diptera: Cryptochetidae)

Imported: 1888, 1922, 1925

Import source: Australia

Released: 1888, 1922, 1925

Release details: Released at Napier in 1888,and at Nelson in 1922. Details of a possible 1925 release are unknown

Establishment: Has been recovered from Northland, Auckland, Tauranga, Wanganui, Nelson and Canterbury.

Impacts on target: Along with Rodolia cardinalis, considered to provide control of I. purchasi

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.