Bug Identifier
Mealybug
Community identification

Mealybug

Pseudococcidae family

Order & Family
Order Hemiptera, Family Pseudococcidae
Size
1 to 4 mm (0.04 to 0.16 inches) long
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Warm, moist environments; commonly found on indoor houseplants, in greenhouses, and on many agricultural crops.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous sap-suckers; they use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on the phloem of plants.

Behavior Patterns

They are slow-moving insects often found in clusters or hidden in plant crevices. They secrete a white, waxy, cotton-like substance for protection and produce honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold growth.

Risks & Benefits

Significant plant pests that weaken hosts, cause leaf yellowing, and can transmit plant viruses. They provide no direct benefit to humans and can decimate ornamental and food crops.