Ecology and management of mealybugs in agriculture: A comprehensive overview

Abstract

Mealybugs (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) are a significant pest group affecting a wide range of crops globally. Their invasive nature, high reproductive capacity, and ability to inflict damage through sap-sucking, honeydew excretion, and pathogen transmission make them formidable adversaries in agricultural systems. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the host range and diversity of mealybug species, emphasizing their ecological and economic impacts on agriculture. It highlights the major invasive species in India, including Phenacoccus solenopsis, Paracoccus marginatus, Phenacoccus madeirensis, Pseudococcus jackbeardsleyi, and Phenacoccus manihoti. The study further explores the various integrated pest management (IPM) strategies employed to manage these pests, combining cultural, biological, and chemical control methods. A thorough understanding of the biology, host specificity, and ecological adaptations of mealybugs is crucial for developing effective and sustainable management practices to mitigate their impact on agriculture. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge, identify gaps, and provide insights into future research directions for managing mealybug infestations in diverse agro-ecosystems.