Coccophagus
Westwood, 1833
Species Guides
1Coccophagus is a large of chalcid wasps in the Aphelinidae, established by Westwood in 1833. Members are primarily associated with scale insects (Coccoidea), playing significant roles in programs. The genus is taxonomically well-established within the Coccophaginae and tribe Coccophagini. in this genus have been documented from multiple continents including North America, Asia, and South America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coccophagus: /kɒkˈkɒfəɡəs/
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Images
Distribution
Documented from California (USA), Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Manipur (India). The has a broad geographic range with records from multiple continents.
Host Associations
- Toumeyella pini - Documented of Striped Pine Scale on Loblolly Pine in Georgia
- Coccoidea - General association with scale insects as primary
Ecological Role
Primary of scale insects (Coccoidea). Contributes to natural of insect in forest and agricultural .
Human Relevance
Used in programs targeting pest scale insects. Coccophagus help manage economically damaging on ornamental and crop plants, including pine species.
Similar Taxa
- AphelinusBoth belong to Aphelinidae and are of Hemiptera, but Coccophagus is distinguished by its specific association with scale insects (Coccoidea) versus aphids for Aphelinus
- EncarsiaBoth are aphelinid , but Coccophagus targets scale insects while Encarsia primarily parasitize whiteflies (Aleyrodidae)
More Details
Taxonomic Position
Type of the Coccophaginae and tribe Coccophagini. The genus name is derived from Greek 'kokkos' (berry/ insect) and 'phagos' (eating), reflecting its ecological role.
Collection Holdings
Specimens of Coccophagus gonzalezi are held in the Entomology Research Museum at University of California, Riverside (UCRC ENT 54597).