A new pest on vanilla plantations in Reunion Island, the vanilla scale, Conchaspis angraeci

摘要

The vanilla scale, Conchaspis angraeci, is a new pest on vanilla plantations in Reunion Island. This widespread species, is recorded on vanilla in Mayotte, and also in French Polynesia, where it was found recently. Over the last three years, it hascaused serious damage on vanilla plantations in Reunion Island and has caused major concern to the producers. Until now this scale insect has been poorly studied. In order to improve knowledge of its biology, our study was based on the determination of its geographic distribution on the Island, host-plants and biological life cycle, as well as the inventory of its natural enemies. Trials have also been carried out to develop a rearing method. The first results show the occurrence of periods of abundanceof mobile larval stages, which are the most susceptible to chemical interventions. The impact of parasitism and predation appear low. This scale insect can be reared on pumpkins and the study of factors influencing its development can now be considered.