Identification of the Pink Hibiscus Mealybug, <I>Maconellicoccus hirsutus</I> (Green) (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Pseudococcidae)

Abstract

The pink hibiscus mealybug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green), has spread rapidly in the tropical and subtropical areas of the New World especially throughout the Caribbean Islands, and has recently been discovered in California, Mexico, and Belize. All instars of the pink hibiscus mealybug are described and illustrated to facilitate discovery of infestations. Comparisons with other common pest species are provided for most of the 8 instars, and a table is included that distinguishes the pink hibiscus mealybug from other pest species in the field.