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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #123862
Title: COLLABORATING TO CONTROL THE PINK HIBISCUS MEALYBUG.

Author
item Lapointe, Stephen
item Serrano, Miguel

Submitted to: Ornamental Outlook
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/30/2001
Publication Date: 7/1/2001
Citation: Lapointe, S.L., Serrano, M.S. 2001. Collaborating to control the pink hibiscus mealybug. Ornamental Outlook.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The recent introduction of a new mealybug pest into the Caribbean and its projected geographic and host distribution in the hemisphere are described. Rearing and introduction of parasitoid wasps of the pink hibiscus mealybug (Maconellicoccus hirsutus) have been conducted throughout the Caribbean, Central America, and California by USDA, APHIS, PPQ with research support from USDA, ARS. The collaboration has resulted in improved mass rearing of the mealybug and its natural enemies, and identification of sex pheromone production by female pink hibiscus mealybugs. Effective and timely biological control of mealybug pests outside of the United States works to minimize their impact when they are eventually introduced into regions such as Florida.