| Distribution |
University of California Cooperative Extension Site developed
and maintained by the Kearney Agricultural Center, |
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| Distribution The pink hibiscus mealybug is a serious pest on many plants in the tropical and subtropical parts of the world. This mealybug is presently established in Africa, Asia, Australia, South America, the Caribbean Islands, the northern Mexicali Valley in Mexico, Hawaii, and the southern Imperial Valley in California. There are a total of 215 host plant species listed for pink hibiscus mealybug, including grape, cotton, avocado, plum, citrus, and lettuce. With this broad host range, pink hibiscus mealybug can spread rapidly once introduced in an area. (Return to top) |
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| Seasonal
abundance & distribution Pink hibiscus mealybugs overwinter as eggs on stems, in soil, in cracks and crevices in the stem, and inside crumpled leaves. Freshly laid eggs are orange but turn pink just prior to hatch. The crawlers disperse from the ovisac by way of walking, wind, or ants. The nymphs feed and develop into adults in approximately 30 days. (Return to top) |
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| Monitoring If a mealybug with no caudal filaments (that is, no tail) is found, it could signify a new infestation of the pink hibiscus mealybug. A sample should be submitted immediately to the local County Agricultural Commissioner or the University of California Cooperative Extension Farm Advisor's office. (Return to top) |
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