Mealybugs: meaning, definitions and examples
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mealybugs
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Definition
pest control
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that are part of the scale insect family. They are known for their white, mealy wax coating and are typically found on the stems and leaves of plants. These pests can cause significant damage to indoor and outdoor plants by feeding on the sap, leading to yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Synonyms
cottony cushion scale, scale insects.
Examples of usage
- Mealybugs infested my houseplants.
- She used insecticidal soap to treat the mealybug problem.
- Mealybugs can reproduce very quickly if not controlled.
- The gardener checked for mealybugs on the new seedlings.
Etymology
The term 'mealybug' has its origins in the 19th century. The name derives from the English word 'mealy', which means powdery or flour-like, referring to the distinctive white, waxy coating that covers these insects. The suffix 'bug' is often used in entomology to describe insects. Mealybugs belong to the family Pseudococcidae, and their first descriptions date back to the 1820s. These pests are common in both tropical and temperate regions around the world, often infesting agricultural crops and ornamental plants. As both gardeners and farmers have dealt with these pests over time, the understanding of their biology and life cycles has grown, leading to more effective management strategies.