Consequences of mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley infestation on hibiscus plants under laboratory conditions

Abstract

As a part of research programme hibiscus plant were used as a host plant for the mass multiplication of Mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis under the laboratory conditions. Five adult female mealybugs were released at the base of the each potted hibiscus plant. These mealybugs over a period of 20-30 days have undergone mass multiplication to a number ranging from 500- 600/plant. All the aerial parts of the plants including, stem, leaves, flower buds and flowers were severely infested. Leaves of the mealybug infected hibiscus plants turned yellow and finally withered and fallen down. In a period of 25-35 days, plants totally lost all of its healthy leaves dried and finally dried. None of the dried plants rejuvenated again.