Entomology
Mealybugs (family Pseudococcidae) are small, soft-bodied insects These pests typically measure 2-5mm in length and cluster together on plants. Their key features include:
- Oval-shaped, segmented body
- White, powdery or cottony wax covering
- Short filaments around body edges
- Short legs and antennae
- Females are wingless and sessile
- Males are smaller with wings (rarely seen)
Reproduction Cycle
Aphids have a complex life cycle that can include both sexual and asexual reproduction:
- Egg: Hatching from a cotton like sac this will take abotu 10 days
- Nymph: A small pinkish or orange color nyphm will emerge and stay in this stage for 1 to 2 months
- Adult: While males will die with in a few days females can last for up to 20 days
Social Aspects
Mealybugs display several notable social and behavioral characteristics:
- Form dense colonies in protected plant areas
- Mutual relationship with ants who protect them and collect their honeydew
- Females remain stationary once settled
- Share feeding sites with family members
- Nymphs may disperse to establish new colonies
Treatment Options
- Gently apply an 90% alcohol solution to effect area with a cotton swab
- Apply insecticidal soap
- Use neem oil
- Prune heavily infested areas
