Interactions between two introduced species of whiteflies in the mediterranean area of Turkey: Dialeurodes citri (Ashmead) and Parabemisia myricae (Kuwana) (Hom., Aleyrodidae)

Abstract

AbstractTwo introduced species of citrus whiteflies, Dialeurodes citri and Parabemisia myricae met in the east mediterranean area of Turkey and proved to be ecological homologues. P. myricae is the superior competitor on account of its faster development and broader ecological niche and started to replace D. citri. After a most effective parasitoid of P. myricae, the aphelinid Eretmocerus debachi was released and successfully suppressed this species, D. citri recovered and became dominant even in regions where it had not been present before. In this way the otherwise excellent economic success of the biological control of P. myricae was partly reduced.