Mealybugs

Papaya

Name: Mealybugs

Scientific Name: Paracoccus marginatus

Crop: Papaya

Description:

  • Papaya mealybugs are widespread during warm, dry seasons and attack papaya plants at all stages of growth.

Damage Symptoms:

  • White, cotton-like waxy masses form on stems, leaves, and fruits at the sites where mealybugs congregate.
  • Leaves may turn yellow or curl, and severe infestation results in leaf shedding.
  • Sooty mould can be observed on leaves due to honeydew secretion by the pest.
  • Severe infestation can cause fruit drop, thereby reducing the overall production of fruits.

Preventive Measures:

  • Mealybugs can easily spread from one plant to another. Thus, plants should be frequently checked, and parts infested with mealybugs should be removed.
  • Lady beetles, which feed on mealybugs, can be introduced into the field as a natural way to reduce pest numbers.

Control Measures:

  • Apply neem oil at 5 ml per litre of water.
  • Foliar sprays of Imidacloprid (0.4 ml/l) or acetamiprid (0.2 g/l) can be used.