Jalali, S.K., Singh, S.P., & Biswas, M.M. 2000 Parasitisation behaviour of Leptomastix dactylopii Howard (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) at various densities of Planococcus citri Risso.. Journal of Entomological Research. New Delhi 24(2): 159-162.

Notes: The response of the encyrtid parasitoid, Leptomastix dactylopii Howard, to various densities of its host mealybug, Planococcus citri Risso, was investigated in the laboratory. Percent parasitization decreased, and adult parasitoid emergence increased, with the increase in host density. Development of immature stages did not differ among different density levels. The percentage of female progeny was greater at lower densities. A positive correlation between density and the number of adults emerged, and a negative correlation between density and parasitization was observed. A parasitoid:host ratio of 1:100 was optimal for parasitoid use and mass production of L. dactylopii.