Seasonal Dynamics and Age Distribution of the Black Scale Saissetia oleae (Olivier) (Hemiptera: Coccidae) on Olive and Oleander Trees in Al-Bayda City, Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar Region, Libya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54172/03f0ar16Keywords:
Saissetia oleae, Population Dynamic, Olive, Oleander, Metaphycus sp, FecundityAbstract
This study was conducted in Al-Bayda ,Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar, over a period of 14 months (May 2018-June 2019) to elucidate the seasonal dynamics and age distribution of the black scale Saissetia oleae on both the olive and oleander hosts. A monthly assessment sampled 160 leaves and 32 twigs from each host plant. Results demonstrated a univoltine life cycle (one generation per year) for the black scale, peaking in August for olive and in June for oleander. Strong positive correlation results (r = 0.65 olive r = 0.72 oleander) were found for density of nymphs and ambient temperature. S. oleae over wintered mainly as second and third instars. The nymphs comprise the majority of the population (85–89%). The results showed statistically significant differences (P < 0.001). In total, 97% of nymphs were located on leaves, whereas 95% of females were located on twigs. The study confirmed the presence of the insect's natural enemies including two parasitoids, one of which was recorded for the first time in the region ( Metaphycus sp) along with four species of predators. A significant correlation was found for fecundity to female body volume on both hosts (olive: r = 0.71; oleander: r = 0.70)
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