Coconut Mealybugs
Active Seasons
Appearance and Size Facts
- Females are oval shaped, with a range of 10 to 12 pairs of waxy protrusions from the yellow-orange wax layer
- Under the wax covering, the insect can range from reddish-brown to orange in color
- Males are elongated, with a very thin wax layer as immatures, are winged and free-living as adults
- Size: Females range from 1/18 to 1/10 inch in length, while males are significant smaller than females
Behavior and Habitat of Coconut Mealybugs
Both male and female Coconut mealybugs look the same as immatures. At the last molt before becoming the sexual reproductive adult form, the males begin to change within a cocoon-like structure and emerge as a winged form, while females remain in an immobile, wax-covered form. Although the name may be misleading, Coconut mealybugs have been documented on a wide variety of host plants, including cycads, palms, banana, avocado, citrus, grape, ginger, and potato. Coconut mealybugs are cosmopolitan in their distribution, being found in North America, Central America, South America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and Oceania.
Signs of Infestation of Coconut Mealybugs
Like most scale insects, Coconut mealybug females and nymphs feed on the plant juices. Excrement from the insects usually results in sooty mold, which can lead to a reduction in plant photosynthesis, leaf drop, leaf chlorosis, and, rarely, death of the host plant. Ants may also be an indication of a scale insect infestation, as they will feed on honeydew secretions and defend the scale insects from predation.
Tips for Prevention of Coconut Mealybugs
Using water to wash the insects from the host plant can also lower populations. If larger populations are noticed, consult a professional pest management company, such as Hulett Environmental Services, to help manage the infestation.
Coconut Mealybug Gallery
Latest Pest & Termite Control News
How Often Do You Need Pest Control?
Feb 19, 2021—Pest Control, Tips & Control Advice
Many homeowners wonder how often pest control should be done. Whether you are looking to prevent a re-infestation after treating your home or are looking to avoid a problem with pests from occurring in the first place, preventative maintenance is essential. A reputable pest control company will...
Read More ›
Proper Pest Control for the Fall and Winter Seasons
Jan 22, 2021—Rodents, Spiders, Cockroaches, Tips & Control Advice, Rodents
While the summer months seem to be the peak of bug season, it's crucial to maintain proper pest control year-round so that for the fall and winter seasons your home remains protected. As the cooler months approach us here in South Florida, some pests may make their way into your home in an attempt...
Read More ›
Take the Outdoors Back with Hulett’s Mosquito Reduction Service
Aug 06, 2020—Mosquitoes, Mosquitoes
The beautiful warm and sunny weather in South Florida makes it one of the most desirable places to live and visit in the world. However, residents and tourists are not the only thing that love to visit the beaches and enjoy the outdoors in South Florida, so do the bugs....
Read More ›
