Coccophagus

Coccophagus is a genus of small parasitic wasps in the family Aphelinidae. Species in this genus are parasitoids of scale insects (superfamily Coccoidea) and are found in various regions worldwide.

Biology and life history: Adults are diminutive wasps, typically a few millimeters in length. Females lay eggs in or on immature scale insects; the larva develops inside the host, eventually killing it. After finishing development, the parasitoid emerges as an adult. The timing of life cycles commonly tracks the availability of hosts, and multiple generations can occur in a single year in favorable climates.

Host range and biocontrol: Coccophagus species specialize on scale insects, including soft scales (Coccidae) and armored scales (Diaspididae). Some species show narrow host ranges, while others parasitize a broader set of scale pests. Because scale insects are agricultural pests, Coccophagus wasps are used in biological control programs in crops such as citrus, vines, and ornamentals, and are often employed alongside other natural enemies in integrated pest management.

Taxonomy and distribution: The genus belongs to the family Aphelinidae, within the Chalidoidea. Coccophagus comprises many described species with a wide distribution, especially in warm-temperate and tropical regions, though individual species vary in range. As with many parasitoid groups, the taxonomy is subject to revision and new species continue to be described.