Maconellicoccus hirsutus

Maconellicoccus hirsutus, commonly known as the Pink Hibiscus Mealybug (PHM), is a sap-sucking insect in the family Pseudococcidae. It is a significant pest of a wide variety of agricultural and ornamental plants.

Description

The adult female Maconellicoccus hirsutus is pink in color and covered with a white, waxy secretion, giving it a mealy or cottony appearance. The male is smaller, has wings, and does not feed. The nymphs, known as crawlers, are yellow and mobile.

Distribution

Originally from Asia, Maconellicoccus hirsutus has spread to many parts of the world, including the Caribbean, Africa, North America, and Oceania. It was first detected in the United States in Florida in 2002.

Host plants

Maconellicoccus hirsutus is a polyphagous pest, meaning it feeds on a wide variety of plants. Its host range includes over 200 species in 76 plant families, including economically important crops such as cotton, citrus, and grapevine, as well as ornamental plants like hibiscus and bougainvillea.

Impact

The Pink Hibiscus Mealybug causes damage by sucking sap from plants, which can lead to wilting, stunting, and leaf yellowing. In severe infestations, it can cause premature leaf drop, dieback, and even plant death. The mealybug also excretes a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold, further harming the plant.

Management

Management of Maconellicoccus hirsutus involves a combination of strategies, including biological control, the use of insecticides, and cultural practices such as the removal of infested plants. One of the most effective biological control agents is the parasitoid wasp Anagyrus kamali, which has been used successfully in several countries to control PHM populations.