[Host-parasite interactions between Coccus hesperidum L. (Hom. Coccidae) and its parasite Coccophagus scutellaris...

The eggs laid in the host gut will develop normally. The larva resulting from those eggs penetrate the hemocele through the gut wall. The structure of the cells near the entry point is not affected because of the continuous renewal of those cells. On the other hand, development of the ovaries is most seriously affected. In fact, ovogenesis is stopped and vitellogenesis slowed down. But this phenomenon is related to the initial level of ovary development. If the attack takes place when the host is young, the effect on the ovaries is more serious. In extreme cases gonad development is annihilated. Otherwise, the host will still be able to lay eggs, but its reproduction capacity is diminished. Factors reducing development of gonads or maintaining them at a juvenile stage are discussed.