Natural Enemies of Cochineal (Dactylopius coccus Costa): Importance in Mexico

Abstract

At the present time, the culture of carmine cochineal (Dactylopius coccus) is redeveloping in Mexico
and the world. However, several natural enemies reduce very significantly the populations of this
insect on its Opuntia hosts, especially in Mexico where there is a higher impact. Therfore, it is
necessary to develop some controls over the enemies of cochineal. This paper presents information
about the natural enemies of cochineals, with emphasis on Mexico, as a first step to support further
controls.