The impact of Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in South America

Abstract: Harmonia axyridis was introduced into the U.S.A. as a biological control agent at different times, but it only became established in 1988. It has also been released in Mexico and it is already established in Canada and also in various European countries. In the latter part of 1990, H. axyridis was introduced as a biological control agent to South America, in Mendoza, Argentina and it has also been reported in Chile, Peru, Paraguay, Uruguay and Brazil. There are various studies of H. axyridis in South America, including some biological and morphological aspects, behavior, intraguild predation, the history of invasion, food preferences and the potential geographical distribution of H. axyridis. Considering its capacity to invade and establish in new areas and the fact that it seems likely to expand its distribution in South America, further studies, including field studies, should be undertaken.