Allobaccha amphithoe (Walker) (Diptera, Syrphidae) a Potential Egg Predator of White-marked Gum (Eucalyptus) Hopper, Platybrachys leucostigma (Walker) (Hemiptera: Eurybrachyidae)

Abstract

Plant hopper, Platybrachys leucostigma (Walker) is one of the important sucking insects feeding on eucalyptus plants. The hoppers and nymphs suck the sap and devitalize the plant. Although several parasites were reported on the eggs, for the first time egg feeding predatory syrphid, Allobaccha amphithoe (Walker) was observed on the egg capsule of P. leucostigma. Eggs are inserted into the capsule by the adult female and the ensuing maggots fed on the eggs. The total life cycle of the syrphid fly is completed in 14-15 days. Egg parasitoid, Proleurocerus litoralis was also found to parasitize the eggs of P. leucostigma.