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An Eretmocerus Species, Parasitoid of Aleurocanthus spiniferus , Was Found in Europe: The Secret Savior of Threatened Plants

Author

Listed:
  • Gianluca Melone

    (Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, 80055 Portici, Italy)

  • Roberta Ascolese

    (National Research Council, Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, P.Le E. Fermi 1, 80055 Portici, Italy
    Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 24, 80126 Naples, Italy)

  • Francesco Nugnes

    (National Research Council, Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, P.Le E. Fermi 1, 80055 Portici, Italy)

  • Francesco Porcelli

    (Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/a, 70126 Bari, Italy)

  • Carmelo Rapisarda

    (Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Applied Entomology Division, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia n. 100, 95123 Catania, Italy)

  • Alessia Farina

    (Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Applied Entomology Division, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia n. 100, 95123 Catania, Italy)

  • Ugo Picciotti

    (Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/a, 70126 Bari, Italy)

  • Francesca Garganese

    (Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/a, 70126 Bari, Italy)

  • Stefania Laudonia

    (Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, 80055 Portici, Italy
    Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology, BAT Center, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Italy)

Abstract

This study focuses on the first detection in Europe of a parasitoid Eretmocerus sp. gr. serius (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) on the Orange Spiny Whitefly, Aleurocanthus spiniferus (Quaintance) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). Through extensive field surveys, this study investigates the occurrence of the aphelinid in several regions across central and southern Italy. Different sites were monitored to investigate the Eretmocerus sp. gr. serius parasitization rate on A. spiniferus , shedding light on its potential as a biological control agent against the invasive whitefly pest. The research results offer a hopeful prospect for progressing sustainable and eco-friendly methods in handling A. spiniferus infestations in citrus crops, highlighting the importance of natural enemies in integrated pest management programs. The research emphasizes the importance of the recently discovered parasitoid for European agriculture, paving the way for inventive approaches in pest control and cultivation practices.

Suggested Citation

  • Gianluca Melone & Roberta Ascolese & Francesco Nugnes & Francesco Porcelli & Carmelo Rapisarda & Alessia Farina & Ugo Picciotti & Francesca Garganese & Stefania Laudonia, 2024. "An Eretmocerus Species, Parasitoid of Aleurocanthus spiniferus , Was Found in Europe: The Secret Savior of Threatened Plants," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(7), pages 1-12, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:7:p:2970-:d:1369217
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Clausen, Curtis P. & Berry, Paul A., 1932. "The Citrus Blackfly in Asia, and the Importation of its Natural Enemies into Tropical America," Technical Bulletins 163388, United States Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service.
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