(Hemiptera: Psyllidae) attack patterns on different genotypes.

Background: The red gum lerp psyllid, Moore (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), an eucalypt insect pest from Australia, was reported in Brazil in 2003. This study evaluated damage patterns of this pest on Dehn (Myrtaceae) and its hybrids X (urocam) and X (urograndis). In addition, parasitism rates of Riek (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) on collected on different eucalypt genotypes are reported.

Methods: Plantation plots of three eucalypt genotypes were evaluated over one year. The eucalypt leaves were collected and examined for attack by . Nymph parasitism of by was recorded.

Results: Damage by was lower on the hybrid genotypes and on the adaxial surface of the eucalypt leaves. egg and nymph density were negatively correlated with monthly rainfall. Nymph parasitism of by was low (2.9%) independent of genotype and did not vary throughout the year.

Discussion: Our data indicate the use of less susceptible eucalypt genotypes (e.g., hybrids) as an alternative to management. Because of the current low mortality rates for resulting from parasitism, biological control with this natural enemy is not recommended as a management strategy for .