Mealybugs as invasive sucking pests: A review of identification and integrated management approaches

Abstract

Mealybugs, soft-bodied sap-sucking insects of the family Pseudococcidae, pose a significant threat to agricultural systems worldwide due to their extensive host range, rapid reproduction, and ability to inflict substantial damage through sap feeding, honeydew excretion, and pathogen transmission. This review provides a comprehensive overview of mealybugs, focusing on their taxonomy, identification methods, and biology. It examines traditional and molecular techniques used for accurate species identification, including recent advancements such as species-specific COI markers for rapid detection. The review highlights key mealybug species, their lifecycle, and their impact on various crops, with particular attention to the papaya mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus, and its management. Furthermore, it explores the role of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies in addressing mealybug infestations. The review underscores the importance of combining biological control agents, such as parasitoids and predators, with cultural practices and organic pesticides to develop effective and sustainable pest management solutions. The integration of Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) with contemporary agricultural practices is also discussed, offering insights into leveraging traditional methods for modern pest control. By synthesizing current research and highlighting successful management strategies, this review aims to enhance understanding and inform future efforts in controlling mealybug populations to mitigate their impact on global agriculture.