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Abstract
Predaceous and parasitic insects provide control of important citrus pests. However, many
pesticides are toxic to these beneficials. Using California citrus grower survey data, this article
tests whether landscape-level use of pesticides affects the presence of and reliance on Aphytis
melinus, an important beneficial insect. Results show that landscape-level pesticide use decreases
the presence of A. melinus and increases reliance on insecticides. Pesticide use on non-citrus
crops has a significant negative effect on the presence of Aphytis melinus, suggesting a cross-crop
spatial externality. Our findings illustrate that regulations designed to address cross-crop effects
on beneficial insects can increase social welfare.