Graham, M.K. 1991 Biological control of Helopeltis spp. in mature cocoa by the black ant (Dolichoderus bituberculatus) and the cocoa mealybug (Planococcus lilacinus).. Planter 67(788): 543-546.

Notes: Major damage to cocoa in Indonesia is caused by Helopeltis spp. to the cherelles and pods. This sap sucking insect causes the cherelles and pods to dry up, drop off or succumb to secondary fungi infection through the mirid puncture wounds. The most efficient deterrent to Helopeltis is the black ant, Dolichoderus bituberculatus which can be induced to colonize cocoa pods in association with a mealybug, Planococcus lilacinus. This symbiotic relationship is discussed and illustrated in this paper.