Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that are related to scale insects. They are found in warm, moist climates and are common pests of houseplants, greenhouse plants, and outdoor plants. Mealybugs feed on the sap of plants and can cause damage to leaves, stems, and fruit.
- Type of Infestation: Pests
- Common Name: Mealy Bug
- Causal Organism: Ferrisia virgata
- Affected Parts Of the plant: leaves, stems, and fruit
Identification:
- Mealybugs are small, oval-shaped insects that are covered in a white, waxy powder.
- They are typically about 1/8 to 1/4 inch long.
- Mealybugs can be difficult to see because they often hide in crevices or under leaves. However, they can be identified by their white, cottony appearance.
Environmental favorable factors for pests/Diseases:
- Warm temperatures: Mealybugs are most active and reproduce quickly in warm climates, with optimal temperatures being between 20-30°C (68-86°F). Cooler temperatures slow their development and reproduction.
- Low humidity: Dry, arid conditions favor mealybug survival and population growth. Conversely, high humidity can encourage the growth of mold, which can harm mealybugs.
- Lack of wind: Still air allows mealybugs to easily disperse and find suitable feeding sites within the vineyard.
Symptoms of Pest/Disease:
- Mealybugs feed on the sap of plants by inserting their long, thin mouthparts into the plant tissue.
- This feeding can cause damage to leaves, stems, and fruit.
- Symptoms of mealybug damage include yellowing and curling of leaves, stunted growth, and sticky deposits on leaves (honeydew).
- In severe cases, mealybugs can kill plants.
Measures to control Pests/Diseases:
| Products | Technical Names | Dosages |
| Propcyp | Profenofos 40 % + Cypermethrin 4 % ec | 400-600 per Acre |
| Mal 50 | Malathion 50 % EC | 250-300 ml per Acre |
| Chloro 20 | Chloropyriphos 20 % EC | 500 to 1200 ML Per Ac |
| IMD-178 | Imidacloprid 17.8 % SL | 100 -150 ml per acre |
| Activated neem Oil | 400 to 600 ml / acre |
