Neodusmetia
Kerrich, 1964
Species Guides
1Neodusmetia is a of encyrtid in the Encyrtidae. The genus contains at least one described , Neodusmetia sangwani, which has achieved international recognition as one of the most successful examples of . This species was introduced from India to multiple countries to control the Rhodes grass , Antonina graminis, a major pest of pasture grasses.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Neodusmetia: /ˌniːoʊdʌsˈmiːtiə/
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Identification
-level diagnostic features for Neodusmetia are not documented in the provided sources. The type exhibits strong : females are wingless with orange-brown and and dark brown , while males are winged and uniformly dark brown. are approximately 1 mm in length.
Images
Habitat
Associated with grassland and pasture where occur on grasses.
Distribution
The is native to India. The type has been introduced to the United States (Texas), Brazil, Israel, and other regions for programs.
Human Relevance
The is notable in applied entomology through its representative Neodusmetia sangwani, which has been deployed in programs against the Rhodes grass . In Texas during the 1960s, this program was estimated to save $17 million annually in turf management and potentially boost cattle production by $177 million per year. The control program in Texas cost under $200,000 to implement.
Similar Taxa
- AnagyrusBoth are encyrtid of ; Anagyrus antoninae was displaced by Neodusmetia sangwani in Florida following the latter's introduction.