Anagyrus pseudococci – Mealybug Parasitoid Wasps

Anagyrus pseudococci is one of the most effective biological controls available for mealybug infestations in greenhouses, grow rooms, vineyards, and field crops. These solitary parasitoid wasps are a cornerstone of professional IPM programs and are especially valuable for controlling vine mealybug, along with citrus, grape, and cypress mealybugs.

Shipped as mummies, Anagyrus typically emerges within five days of arrival and immediately begins parasitizing mealybugs. Each female lays a single egg inside a mealybug host and can lay up to 50 eggs in her lifetime. As the larva develops, the mealybug becomes immobilized and eventually forms a hardened mummy, from which a new adult wasp emerges—naturally suppressing pest populations without chemicals.

Target Pests

• Vine Mealybug (Planococcus ficus)

• Citrus Mealybug (Planococcus citri)

• Grape Mealybug (Pseudococcus maritimus)

• Cypress Mealybug (Planococcus spp.)

Optimal Conditions

• Temperature range: 57–93°F

• Humidity: RH has limited effect on performance

Use in Biological Control

Anagyrus is the most effective parasitoid for vine mealybug, but it does not provide complete control on its own. For best results, it should be used in combination with Cryptolaemus montrouzieri (mealybug destroyer) to achieve full population suppression.

Release Rates

• Greenhouses & Grow Rooms:
  Release 1 wasp per 5 square feet every two weeks

• Field Applications:
  Use a minimum of 2,000 mummies per acre, applied monthly

Storage & Release Instructions

• Upon arrival, store at room temperature to allow proper emergence

• When ready to release, remove the bottle top and place near infested plants

• Wasps will emerge naturally from the mummies

• Do not release near ants, as ants interfere with parasitism and reproduction

What to Expect

• Adult emergence within ~5 days

• Visible mealybug mummies on plants

• Gradual reduction in mealybug populations over several weeks

Viability Note

Viability checks should be performed upon receipt and before release. Because parasitoids are small and difficult to observe after release, contact us promptly if you believe there may be any issues with viability.