Hemisarcoptid mites

Hemisarcoptid mites are predators of scale insects and can be found under their scale coverings. They are slow moving and are transported aerially by hitching a ride on predatory ladybirds (Chilocorus spp.). Hemisarcoptes coccophagus (shown) was successfully introduced to New Zealand and feeds on scale insects in the North Island. Attempts to establish this species in the south have so far been unsuccessful. Chilocorus spp. have not established in New Zealand.

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