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Aphytis melinus is a small light yellow parasitic wasp about 1mm in size. The wasp parasitizes various types of armored scale. The wasp lays eggs under the waxy scale covering, created by the scale. The parasite larvae develop under the scale covering. The window for female control is during the second and third instars of development while she is a virgin. The male's window is during the second instar and pre-pupae development. It is during these developmental stages that the scale is not affixed to host plant thus allowing the parasites to get under the scale. In some cases the scale is killed by adult hosts feeding on them. Once the scale is parasitized it looks dried out and when examined closely may have dark spots.
Target Pests:
California red scale
Aonidiella aurantii, on citrus, roses and ornamentals
Ivy or oleander scale
Aspidiotus nerii
San Jose scale
Quadraspidiotus perniciosus
Walnut scale
Q. juglanregiae
Dyctyospermum scale
Chrysomphalus dictyospermi
Release Rates:
General - It is best to release Aphytis melinus in 1-3 week intervals upon detection of Scales until low Scale numbers are observed.
A simple guideline is 5 -10 Wasps per infested plant.
10-20K per acre is for moderate infestations. Release on shaded side of tree during temperatures below 90° F. Release every fifth to sixth tree, every fifth to sixth row.
1-2 wasps per sq. ft, weekly, 1-3 applications are usually required depending upon infestation.
Life Cycle:
At 80° F Aphytis take 13-18 days to develop from egg to adult. Adults live for approximately 10-16 days (up to 25) and deposit 6-8 eggs daily.
