About Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid
A tiny encyrtid wasp credited with saving Africa's cassava crop from devastating mealybug infestations. It was introduced from South America in the 1980s as a biological control agent.
Did You Know?
Its release across Africa is considered one of the most successful biological control programs in history, saving millions from famine.
How to Identify Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid
Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid (Anagyrus lopezi) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Encyrtidae. Adults typically measure 1-2 mm.
Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid Habitat
Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Africa, South America (native). This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid Diet and Feeding
Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid is a parasitoid whose larvae develop inside or on a host insect, eventually killing it. Parasitoids are important biological control agents in agriculture and natural ecosystems.
Where Is Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid Found?
Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid can be found in Africa, South America (native), where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid can be found
Is Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid Dangerous?
Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid Role in Nature
Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid is an important biological control agent. As a parasitoid, its larvae develop inside host insects, naturally regulating pest populations. This makes it valuable in integrated pest management strategies.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid
What does Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid look like?
The Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid typically measures 1-2 mm.
Where is Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid found?
The Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid is found in Africa, South America (native) and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid eat?
The Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid is a parasitoid whose larvae develop inside a host, eventually killing it.
Is Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid dangerous to humans?
The Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
Is Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid endangered?
The Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid is currently classified as Not Evaluated by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.
What is an interesting fact about Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid?
Its release across Africa is considered one of the most successful biological control programs in history, saving millions from famine.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid (Anagyrus lopezi). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/cassava-mealybug-parasitoid
MLA:
"Cassava Mealybug Parasitoid." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/cassava-mealybug-parasitoid.