DeBach, P., Dietrick, E.J., & Fleschner, C.A. 1951 Ants vs. biological control of citrus pests.. California Citrograph 36: 312,347-348.

Notes: It is generally recognized that control of the Argentine ant would be followed by successful biological control of the citrus mealybug (Pseudococcus citri) and the soft-brown scale (Coccus hesperidum). Recent studies in untreated citrus groves under fair to excellent biological control have shown that ant infestations may cause serious increases in populations of the California red scale, the citrus red mite and citrus aphids, as well as of the citrus mealybug, the soft-brown scale, the black scale, and the yellow scale. Ants exhibit no special interest in the California red scale or the citrus red mite because these pests secrete no honeydew, but indirectly ants favor the increase of these pests because they attack their natural enemies.