Biological Control of Citrus Blackfly (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) in Texas

Abstract
Surveys of citrus blackfly (CBF), Aleurocanthus woglumi Ashby, in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas (1977–1982) indicated a widespread current distribution of the exotic parasite Encarsia opulenta Silvestri, and suggested competitive displacement of E. clypealis Silvestri and Amitus hesperidum Silvestri in most populations. Studies demonstrated the capability of E. opulenta to rapidly suppress high-density CBF infestations, and to maintain a stable coexistence with its host at equilibrium densities within the range from 0.001 to 0.005 CBF per leaf without periodic disruption.