Here's the information about the pests that affect trees, specifically the Pollu beetle (also known as Floes beetle) and the Mealy bug, along with their scientific names, family, order, damaging stage, nature of damage, oviposition, pupation site, and management strategies:
1. Pollu Beetle/Floes Beetle:
- Scientific Name: Pollu beetle or Floes beetle is commonly known as Hypselogenia spp. (multiple species within the genus).
- Family: Tenebrionidae.
- Order: Coleoptera.
- Damaging Stage: Both the larvae and adults of the Pollu beetle can cause damage.
- Nature of Damage: The Pollu beetle larvae feed on the roots, causing underground damage, while the adults feed on the leaves, twigs, and bark of trees.
- Oviposition: The female beetles lay eggs in the soil near the base of trees.
- Pupation Site: The larvae pupate in the soil.
- Management: Some management strategies for controlling Pollu beetles include:
- Cultural control: Implementing good sanitation practices, such as removing and destroying infested plant material, can help reduce beetle populations.
- Chemical control: In severe infestations, insecticides can be applied according to the recommended guidelines. Consult with local agricultural authorities or professionals for specific recommendations.
2. Mealy Bug:
- Scientific Name: Mealybugs belong to the family Pseudococcidae, and there are multiple species within this family, including the common mealybug species Planococcus citri and Pseudococcus longispinus.
- Family: Pseudococcidae.
- Order: Hemiptera.
- Damaging Stage: Mealybugs in all stages (eggs, nymphs, and adults) can cause damage.
- Nature of Damage: Mealybugs pierce plant tissues and extract sap, weakening the trees and causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and the production of honeydew (a sticky substance that attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold).
- Oviposition: Female mealybugs lay eggs in clusters or masses on the plant's surface or in protected areas.
- Pupation Site: Mealybugs do not have a pupal stage. They go through several nymphal stages before reaching adulthood.
- Management: Some management strategies for controlling mealybugs include:
- Cultural control: Regularly inspect plants for early detection and remove heavily infested parts. Prune and destroy severely infested branches or plants if necessary.
- Biological control: Encourage natural enemies of mealybugs, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps, by providing a diverse and balanced ecosystem.
- Chemical control: In severe infestations, insecticides specifically labeled for mealybugs can be used. Follow the instructions on the product label and consider the potential impact on beneficial insects.
