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Planococcus citri

Citrus mealybug

Description

Planococcus citri, commonly known as the citrus mealybug, is a sap-sucking insect from the family Pseudococcidae. Native to Asia, it is now widespread across Europe, especially in greenhouses and ornamental plantings. It infests woody plants by piercing plant tissues to extract sap, weakening the host and reducing its vigor. It primarily attacks citrus, oleander, pomegranate, fig, and various ornamental shrubs grown in warm climates or protected environments. Females lay eggs in white, cotton-like ovisacs, and both nymphs and adults excrete honeydew, which promotes the development of black sooty mold that negatively affects the ornamental appearance of infested leaves and fruit. Populations can thrive year-round under stable greenhouse conditions, with multiple generations per year. It is a important pest in citrus plantations in the Mediterranean region of Europe.

Symptom

White waxy deposits and cotton-like masses on leaves and shoots; sticky honeydew supporting black mold growth.

Tree Species: Citrus, Fig tree, Pomegranate , Oleander

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle, Fruit / Seed, Branch

Pest significance: Very harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes