Mealybugs, especially the citrus mealybug (Planococcus citri), is increasing as a pest of greenhouse ornamental crops. On commercially grown roses, this mealybug was normally held in check by repeated sprays of broad spectrum biocides directed at the western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis). With the advent of more selective insecticides for control of thrips and other major rose pests, mealybugs have emerged as major problems. The citrus mealybug is usually found on the woody stems of the rose plant, particularly the area near the bend of bent-cane roses. In an effort to intiate control strategies for this mealybug on roses, we intiated a study to better understand its biology at temperatures typical of commercial rose production in California. Developmental rates from egg to adult were determined under laboratory conditions emulating commerical greenhouse rose production. Temperatures used reflect common greenhouse conditions: 28 C day, 18 C night. Freshly laid mealybug eggs were placed on 15 miniature rose plants. Mealybug specimens were then collected from the rose 3-4 times weekly and slidemounted to determine instar and sex of the mealybug. This technique was used to calculate the development time for each stage and total devleopment time from egg to adult.
Species 1: Homoptera Pseudococcidae Planococcus citri (citrus mealybug)
Keywords: Planococcus citri, development
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