Identification
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered in a white, waxy, cotton-like substance. They range in size from 1 to 5 mm and have oval, segmented bodies. They possess short antennae and lack wings in the nymph stage, while adult males may have wings but do not feed. Mealybugs are found worldwide, particularly in warm, humid climates and greenhouses.
Lifecycle & Reproduction
Mealybugs undergo incomplete metamorphosis. Females lay clusters of eggs in waxy sacs on plant surfaces. Eggs hatch into mobile crawlers that disperse to new feeding sites. Nymphs progress through several molts before maturing into adults. A complete lifecycle takes about 6-8 weeks, with multiple generations per year in favorable conditions.
Habits, Diet & Behavior
Mealybugs feed on plant sap using their piercing-sucking mouthparts. They prefer tender plant tissues, often gathering in leaf axils, stems, and root zones. They excrete honeydew, attracting ants and fostering sooty mold growth. Mealybugs are relatively immobile once they settle to feed and can quickly spread in indoor environments.
Where You’ll Find Them / Typical Locations
These pests are common on houseplants, greenhouse crops, and outdoor ornamental plants. They infest vegetables, fruit trees, succulents, and tropical plants. They tend to cluster in protected areas, such as leaf joints, stem crevices, and root systems.
Threats & Danger
Mealybugs weaken plants by draining sap, leading to yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. Severe infestations can cause plant decline or death. The honeydew they produce promotes fungal infections, and their presence can interfere with plant nutrient absorption. They are a significant problem in commercial agriculture and greenhouses.
Prevention
- Inspect new plants before introducing them to indoor or outdoor spaces.
- Quarantine infested plants to prevent the spread.
- Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
- Maintain plant health with proper watering and fertilization to reduce susceptibility.
- Regularly wipe plant leaves with a damp cloth to remove early infestations.
Signs of Infestation
- White, cottony masses on leaves, stems, or roots.
- Sticky honeydew residue leading to sooty mold growth.
- Yellowing, curling, or distorted leaves.
- Wilting or stunted plant growth.
- Presence of ants tending to mealybug colonies.
How to Get Rid of It
- Remove and dispose of heavily infested plant parts.
- Apply rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap directly onto mealybugs.
- Use neem oil or horticultural oils to smother infestations.
- Introduce beneficial insects like mealybug destroyers (Cryptolaemus montrouzieri).
- For severe infestations, use systemic insecticides labeled for mealybug control.