RESULTS OF FOREIGN EXPLORATION FOR NATURAL ENEMIES OF PLANOCOCCUS FICUS (HOM.: PSEUDOCOCCIDAE), A NEW INVASIVE MEALYBUG IN CALIFORNIA VINEYARDS

SUMMARY: Mealybugs are pests and virus vectors of grapevines in many regions of the world. Newly introduced into California the vine mealybug, Planococcus ficus (Homoptera; Pseudococcidae) damages vines, but could also become a major threat to figs, apples, citrus and tropical crops. Classical biological control is one way to control the pest. Foreign exploration for natural enemies of the P. ficus complex is underway in the Mediterranean basin where it is thought to originate. The efficacy and behaviour of potential natural enemies will be evaluated for future release into California. In addition, collections of P. ficus will be genetically characterized and its centre of origin determined. This article presents the objectives and first results of this programme.