Dispersal of Amitus hesperidum and Encarsia opulenta Released for the Biological Control of Citrus Blackfly in South Florida

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Abstract
Amitus hesperidum Silvestri and E. opulenta (Silvestri) dispersed rapidly from 3 release areas in south Florida in the time required for the development of 2-3 generations. Wilton Manor, Melrose Park and Coconut Creek, 3 areas within or near the city limits of Fort Lauderdale, comprised the dispersal-study areas. A. hesperidum (2500) and E. opulenta (400) were released in Wilton Manor; A. hesperidum (3400) and E. opulenta (300) were released in Melrose Park and A. hesperidum (500) plus E. opulenta (5000) were released in Coconut Creek. Dispersal of up to 3.7 km was recorded for A. hesperidum and 1 km for E. opulenta within a time period allowing for no more than 3 generations of either species.