The survey was conducted in Southwestern Ethiopia, to study the distribution and population dynamics of Coccinellidae predators associated with White Mango Scale (WMS). The identification of the predators was done by collecting infested mango leaves from the targeted fields. In all surveyed areas, three Chilocorus beetles spp. (Chilocorus spp. 1, 2, and 3) and one unknown beetle were identified feeding on all stages of WMS. The number of Chilocorus spp. 1 was higher compared with the other identified predators in all surveyed areas. Among the surveyed areas, East Wollega had the highest population of Chilocorus spp. 1. The peak population of the identified Coccinellidae predators and WMS varied from March to May depend on the species and areas. Overall, during the rainy and high temperature seasons, the number of both WMS and predators declined. The correlation study showed that the populations of the predators were positively correlated with weather factors and WMS, as prey factor. Altogether, the current study suggests that identified Coccinellidae Chilocorus spp. 1 was considered as the potential predator to control WMS. Therefore, future studies need to be focus on predacious efficacy, mass rearing and field release mechanism and compatibility with other management options.
Coccinellidae, predators, distribution, population dynamics, WMS
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