Faunistic Survey and New Records of Encyrtidae (Hymenoptera) Parasitoids Attacking Soft Scale Insects on Citrus

Abstract

Encyrtidae (Hymenoptera) represents one of the most diverse and ecologically important groups of parasitoids, playing a crucial role in the biological suppression of soft scale insect populations in perennial cropping systems. The present study was conducted to document the faunistic diversity and report new records of encyrtid parasitoids associated with soft scale insects infesting Citrus plantations. Systematic surveys were carried out in major citrus-growing orchards exhibiting infestations of soft scale insects, characterized by honeydew secretion, sooty mold development, and leaf yellowing. Infested plant parts were collected and maintained under laboratory conditions to allow parasitoid emergence. Emerged parasitoids were preserved, mounted, and identified using standard taxonomic keys and morphological diagnostic features. The study revealed the presence of several encyrtid species, including new distributional and host association records for the region. Variations in parasitism levels were observed across orchards, likely influenced by ecological factors such as pesticide usage, habitat complexity, and climatic conditions. The recorded parasitoids demonstrated significant potential in regulating scale insect populations under natural field conditions. Observations on host–parasitoid interactions indicated that encyrtids contribute substantially to reducing immature scale stages, thereby limiting population buildup. The findings emphasize the importance of conserving native parasitoid diversity in citrus agroecosystems through reduced chemical interventions and adoption of integrated pest management strategies. This study enhances the current understanding of encyrtid biodiversity and their ecological role in sustainable pest management and provides valuable baseline information for future taxonomic, ecological, and biological control research in citrus production systems.