Genetically Improving the Natural Enemy of California Red Scale

The ultimate goal of proposed research is field deployment of genetically improved Aphytis possessing resistance to broad spectrum insecticides in the citrus orchards. Following the successful development of improved strain, we will partner with insectary industry for eventual field deployment in California citrus orchards. We expect that the deployment phase will occur very rapidly through our partnership with insectary industry as they are already mass-rearing and marketing Aphytis. Depending upon the fitness and genetic basis of insecticide resistance in improved strain, resistance maintenance and deployment strategies will be formulated. The parasitoid release guidelines will be shared with stakeholders through oral presentations at public meetings and written documents distributed through California citrus groups and university outlets.