THE GOLDEN CHALCID ARMORED SCALE PARASITE
RED SCALE PARASITE
(Aphytis melinus) California red scale is the favorite prey of these parasitic wasps, although citrus red scale, oleander scale, San Jose scale, ivy scale, and citrus yellow scale are other prey. Also including Aonidiella auranti on roses citrus and ornamentals. Aphytis are shipped as adults, and the adult females lay their eggs in red scale. This wasp parasitizes various types of armored scale. The wasp lays eggs under the waxy scale covering, created by the scale. The parasite larvae develop under the scale covering. In some cases the scale is killed by adult hosts feeding on them. Once the scale is parasitized it looks dried out and when examined closely may have dark spots. At 80 degrees F A. melinus take 13-18 days to develop from egg to adult. Adults live for approximately 10-16 days (up to 25) and deposit 6-8 eggs daily. It is best to release A. melinus in 1-3 week intervals upon detection of scale until low scale numbers are observed. Scale emergence usually occurs in spring. Optimal release conditoins are between 60-88 degrees F. On extablished scale sites it can take up to 2-3 months for complete control. Once low levels are achieved 1-3 releases per year should maintain control.
The release rates depend on the host plants. A simple guideline is 5-10 wasps per infested plant. Parasites should be released by waving cup around infested plants 2-3 times. If infestation levels are high apply insecticidal soap 2-3 weeks prior to release. Wash off Honeydew from plants just before release. ANT CONTROL IS OF PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE IN ALL APPLICATIONS!
|
