Context:

Pseudacysta perseae (Heid.) is the most important pest in avocado plantations in Cuba.

Objective:

To establish the management of P. perseae on solid scientific bases.

Methods:

The biological studies were performed at the Laboratory of Taxonomy of the Agricultural Research Center. Threshold temperatures and heat units were determined. The description of damages and the bioregulators detection were carried out during four years by means of inspection in several Cuban locations. Susceptibility tests with entomopathogenic fungi were carried out under laboratory conditions and in commercial avocado plantations at the agricultural enterprise “La Cuba”.

Results:

Information about the biology, ecology, damages and natural enemies of this pest is provided. Technical specifications for the use of biological control in the fight against P. perseae are reflected.

Conclusions:

The pest management through the use of entomopathogenic fungi was established as an alternative aimed to avoid chemical pesticides.

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