Explanation of Names
Cryptognatha nodiceps Marshall, 1912
Numbers
1 introduced species in North America
Identification
Elytral color highly variable from typical to having disc entirely black with reddish yellow spot near suture posterior to middle. (González et al. 2019)
Range
est. in s. FL (Broward & Dade Cos.)
(1)(2)Food
Scale insects, especially coconut scale and sugarcane scale
Remarks
imported in the 1930s, released, and established as a classical biological control agent for coconut scale (Aspidiotus destructor Signoret) (Frank and McCoy 1993)
The introductions were made in 1936 and 1938 from Puerto Rico and Trinida into south Florida (Miami) for use against the coconut scale. The species was recovered in 1940 and again in 1963. It is not certain whether it is actually established or not, but if so, then the population is evidently very low and cannot be considered as having any significant impact on pest populations at the present time. All available records are from the Miami area.
(3)Print References
Frank JH, McCoy ED. 1993. The introduction of insects into Florida. Florida Entomologist 76: 1-53.
González, F.G., Hanley, G.A., Gordon, R.D. (2019) South American Coccinellidae (Coleoptera), Part XIX: Overview of Cryptognathini and systematic revision of South American Cryptognatha Mulsant. Insecta Mundi 714 (714): 1-32.
