Citrus Mealybug Encyrtid vs Malachite Butterfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Citrus Mealybug Encyrtid | Malachite Butterfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Leptomastix dactylopii | Siproeta stelenes |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Encyrtidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | 1.5-2.5 mm | Wingspan 85-100mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Orchards |
| Diet | Parasitoids | Herbivores |
| Regions | South America, Mediterranean, Worldwide (introduced) | North America, South America |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Citrus Mealybug Encyrtid
A solitary parasitoid wasp specific to citrus mealybugs, used globally in greenhouse biological control. Adults are slender with iridescent wings and long antennae.
Did You Know?
A single female can parasitize up to 100 mealybugs in her lifetime, making her a potent biological control agent.
Malachite Butterfly
A large butterfly with striking black and brilliant malachite green patterning on both wing surfaces. It has a slow graceful flight.
Did You Know?
Unlike most butterflies it feeds primarily on rotting fruit and bird droppings rather than flower nectar.