Objective.

To provide information on the life cycle of the shell (or shield) psyllid, Glycaspis brimblecombei in Colombia, and its natural enemies, mainly the parasitic wasp Psyllaephagus bliteus, in a eucalyptus plantation in Jericó (Antioquia).

Scope.

Through experimental trials, the results of the life cycle and the main characteristics of the pest are shown in a Eucalyptus camaldulensis plantation.

Methodology.

The development stages of the insect in the field were identified by random selection of isolated leaves using entomological sleeves. The identification of natural enemies was carried out by direct observation and manual collection during July and August 2016.

Main results.

First report for Colombia of the duration in the field of the life cycle of G. brimblecombei. The complete development lasted 32.83 ± 4.2 days (mean ± SE) under field conditions (mean temperature: 27°C). The nymphs reached a duration of 14.42 ± 1.15 days between hatching and adult stage. The time reported for each stage (I, II, III, IV and V) was 4.11 ± 1.17, 7.00 ± 1.13, 9.74 ± 1.51, 11.95 ± 1.64 and 13.42 ± 1.7 days, respectively. The natural enemies found include insects of the families Coccinellidae, Formicidae, Encyrtidae and Crysopidae. The presence and importance of the parasitoid P. bliteus is highlighted, reported as the main biological controller associated with the spread of the pest from its center of origin (Australia).

Conclusions.

The record of P. bliteus highlights its ecological role, commonly described as an effective biological control agent for this psyllid. These results are essential to establish future IPM programs in eucalyptus forest plantations in the country.

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