Control of the prickly pear cochineal, Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell), in Morocco: an overview

Prickly pear, Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller (Caryophyllales: Cactaceae), cultivations in Morocco have been aggressively infested in recent years by the prickly pear cochineal, Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell) (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae). An integrated pest management program that takes a holistic approach at the agroecosystem level, rather than piecemeal pesticide applications, is likely to improve cochineal control in Morocco. The pest protection plan should include the use of natural extracts, biorational insecticides, and natural enemies to biologically control D. opuntiae infestations. Mechanical methods, such as pruning and uprooting, are potential control measures in areas where the first evidence of D. opuntiae infestation occurs. Using resistant cactus varieties to the prickly pear cochineal will also minimize the spread of this pest. Eight resistant cultivars to D. opuntiae were identified, registered, and multiplied, and plantation on a large scale is underway in Morocco’s cactus area. This paper provides an overview of present information on prickly pear cochineal for Moroccan farmers and stakeholders in order to suggest the best way to limit or counter the spread of this pest, particularly in freshly cactus cultivated areas.