mealybugs

Damage:
Mealybugs are often found in clusters on stems and leaf whorls. They produce honeydew which often leads to sooty mould growth. 

Large colonies can weaken the plant because of the amount of sap being taken which can result in yellowing leaves & defoliation. 

Root-feeding species are seen as white patches among the roots when re-potting, especially around the sides of the root ball.

Life Cycle

Most mealybug  species lay eggs. However, the long-tailed mealybug gives birth to live young, while the citrus & vine mealybug produce quantities of "waxy wool" in which they can lay up to 500 eggs.

Egg laying may take up to 10 days and reduces the size of the female mealybug considerably. The female dies once she has completed laying her eggs. 

Once hatched the young, or "crawlers" as they are sometimes called, are very mobile. They disperse rapidly and find suitable sites in which to feed and settle. The females continue to feed until they are mature enough to lay eggs.

The complete life cycle takes approximately 50 days at 20ºC (68ºF), this is reduced to 25 days at 30ºC, higher temperatures may inhibit egg laying. 

Biological Control of Mealybugs.

Mealybugs can be controlled biologically in greenhouses or conservatories by using their natural enemies Cryptolaemus or Leptomastix or a combination of both.