Host suitability of three <i>Opuntia</i> taxa for the <i>Dactylopius opuntiae</i> (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae) ‘stricta’ lineage

Dactylopius opuntiae ‘stricta’ lineage was released more than 20 years ago in South Africa where it has successfully controlled Opuntia stricta. However, its host preference had not been tested against all invasive cacti Africa. Therefore, the possibility exists that might control other cacti. We compared performance of on stricta, humifusa and two lineages engelmannii. Additionally, we assessed if morphology these taxa could be used as an indicator selection by D. opuntiae. Acceptability suitability were measured life history parameters such crawler development time female weight. Principal component analysis six morphometric characters to assess similarities between taxa. stricta is morphologically similar O. engelmannii humifusa, which showed little similarity any some morphological each other. The completed cochineal considered a potential biological agent for humifusa. Conversely, able complete Consequently, would suitable either results show obvious suitability.