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.