Pink Hibiscus Mealybug

By Margo “Mac” McDowell, Master Gardener Coordinator

 

We were notified through Texas A & M University that there was going to be a nationwide conference on a pest that has potential to devastate the nursery industry. Thinking that this could potentially be a great opportunity to develop projects for us, we received permission to be in attendance. On June 1, the Entomology Committee and yours truly attended a special teleconference with numerous others throughout the nation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Identification of the PHM isn’t going to be easy. There are several mealybug species that could easily be mistaken for the PHM. Here are some characteristics that can help with identification: The PHM is slightly different from the more common citrus mealybug in that it is pink to reddish brown, with the female being darker in color and having a more whitish, waxy covering. However, when they are on the plant, they appear as white cottony masses, just like the other mealybugs. PHM does not have stripes on its back, as opposed to the citrus mealybug, and it does not have a waxy fringe around it either. If you squish a PHM – it produces reddish to brownish liquid. Another method of identification is the eggs. The female can lay 80-600 pink eggs, depending on the host plant and temperature. The eggs have a pinkish tinge to them, as opposed to other mealybugs which have a whitish to yellowish tinge. The PHM young are mobile when born.

 

Another way to identify if the PHM is present is to look at the plant itself. The top leaves become “bunched.” Hence the name “bunchy top,” which is a common symptom of PHM infestations. Bunchy-top refers to a reduction in the internode’s length which causes leaves to appear ‘bunched’ (see picture). Flowers can be distorted and gnarled up as well. Very few PHM are needed to cause “bunchy top.”

 

There is research is progress using natural enemies that have proven to be very successful.

 

As a homeowner, if you think you have the PHM, here are recommendations:

 

1. Don’t move infested plants.

2. Don’t apply any insecticides, oils or soaps until you have contacted someone or taken a sample.

3. Don’t release any predators; these are not likely to control infestations.

4. Call or email the Master Gardener Hotline (281-341-7068/ fortbendmg@ag.tamu.edu). A member of the Entomology Committee will contact the proper authorities.

 

See: http://mrec.ifas.ufl.