Gautam, R.D. 2003a Classical biological control of pink hibiscus mealy bug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus (green) in the Caribbean.. Plant Protection Bulletin (Faridabad) 55(1/2): 1-8.

Notes: Recently, the introduction of the ladybird beetles Cryptolaemus montrouzieri and Scymnus coccivora against the pink hibiscus mealy bug (PHMB; Maconellicoccus hirsutus) was facilitated by India into the Caribbean. This paper describes the morphological characteristics, world distribution, plant hosts, damage, and mechanisms of spread of PHMB in the Caribbean. The economic losses and consequences due to PHMB are briefly discussed. Techniques on rearing and releasing predators of PHMB such as C. montrouzieri, S. coccivora and Anagyrus kamali are discussed. Considerations for effective colonization of natural enemies are enumerated.