Abstract

DIODATO, L.; FUSTER, A.  and  DE GALINDEZ, M. J.. Induced infestations of cochineal Dactylopius coccus (Homoptera, Dactylopiidae), in Santiago del Estero, Argentina.. Quebracho (Santiago del Estero) [online]. 2009, vol.17, n.1, pp.52-57. ISSN 1851-3026.

There is an increasing interest in the production of cochineal for the extraction of carminic acid in regions of Argentina which are suitable for raising the insect. The purpose of this paper is to determine yield values and the optimal number of mother females in nests to be used in induced infestations of Dactylopius coccus Costa raised under cover, in the climatic conditions of the Semiarid Chaco Region. Production is expressed in terms of number and fresh weight of females insects obtained per cladode. Yield values fall within those reported in the literature for similar conditions. 15 females per nest appears to be the best density for cochineal production. A greater number of mother females per cladode was found in the summer production.

Keywords : Dactylopius coccus; Production; Semiarid Chaco Region; Argentine.

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