Wasps to the rescue of Southeast Asia's cassava

摘要

Wasps can help protect cassava plants against the fatal mealybug, according to an FAO project. The cassava pink mealybug injects a toxin into the cassava plant while feeding on its leaves and stems, causing the plants to wither and die.The parasitic wasp known as Anagyruslopezi can be introduced into the infected areas. The wasp lays its eggs in the mealybug and the growing larvae eat their way out, effectively killing the host.