Mealybug
Scientific Name: Pseudococcidae (Family)
Order & Family: Hemiptera (Order), Pseudococcidae (Family)
Size: Typically 1 to 4 millimeters in length, although some species can grow slightly larger.
Natural Habitat
Found on stems and leaves of plants, particularly favoring warm, humid environments such as greenhouses and indoor houseplants, as well as outdoor gardens in warmer climates.
Diet & Feeding
Sapsuckers that feed on plant juices (phloem), often congregating in protected areas like leaf axils and undersides of leaves.
Behavior Patterns
They produce a white, waxy, cotton-like substance for protection and excrete a sticky substance called honeydew. They are relatively immobile once established on a feeding site.
Risks & Benefits
Major agricultural and horticultural pests that weaken plants, cause yellowing and leaf drop, and promote the growth of sooty mold due to honeydew excretion. Harmless to humans directly.
Identified on: 2/10/2026