First detection of the opuntia cochineal scale Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell, 1896) (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae), in Misserghin (Oran), the North-West of Algeria

Abstract The cochineal insect, Dactylopius opuntiae (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae) was recorded for the first time in Misserghin (Oran) in 2024. This species was collected from severely infested cladodes on prickly pear cacti across several localities in the north part of Misserghin. The samples were identified both morphologically and molecularly, using two mitochondrial gene markers, – cytochrome C oxidase subunit I and II (COI) as well as 28S rDNA marker. The survey revealed that this recently introduced species is now widespread in the North-West of the country and that the damages are very severe on cladodes and fruits. Further surveys are recommended to assess the full extent of its distribution and to identify potential natural enemies of D. opuntiae in Algeria.