Studies on Parabemisia myricae in Italy
Studies were carried out in Campania (Italy) from 1992 to 1994 on the population dynamics and parasitoids of Parabemisia myricae (EPPO A2 quarantine pest) in citrus orchards. The authors recalled that P. myricae was first recorded in Italy (Sicilia) in 1990, but then spread to all citrus-growing areas in Italy. It was found for the first time in Campania in 1992 (new detailed record). The results of these studies showed that the insect overwinters mainly as the fourth nymphal stage and subpupa. Reproduction then starts on new shoots from March-April and 4-5 generations per year are observed. A complex of parasitoids including: Eretmocerus debachi, Encarsia meritoria and Encarsia transvena was able to maintain the pest population at a low level. On average, the total rate of parasitization was 49.3 % in 1992, 52.5 % in 1993 and 34.3 % in 1994, and no chemical treatments were needed.
Sources
Viggiani, G. (1996) Fenologia, dinamica delle popolazioni e parassitoidi di Parabemisia myricae (Kuwana) (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) in Campania.
Bollettino del Laboratorio di Entomologia Agraria 'Filippo Silvestri', Portici, vol. 51, 137-153.