First record of Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on Albizia julibrissin - Honeybee foraging on mealybug honeydew

Tsagkarakis, A.E.; Kaydan, M.B.; Stathas, G.J.; Gastouniotis, G.

doi:10.2478/hppj-2025-0003

Abstract

In August 2024, the pink hibiscus mealybug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Pseudococcidae), was found in heavy infestations on Albizia julibrissin Durazz. (Fabaceae) and Grevillea robusta A. Cunn. (Proteaceae) in Athens, Greece. This is the first global record of A. julibrissin and the first record on G. robusta in Greece, as hosts of M. hirsutus. All developmental stages: eggs, nymphs, and adult males and females, were present. Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) were observed actively foraging on the abundant honeydew secreted by the mealybugs. Further research is necessary to assess the potential impact of this invasive pest on host plants in Greece, and the significance of its honeydew as an alternative food resource for honeybees.

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First record of Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on Albizia julibrissin - Honeybee foraging on mealybug honeydew

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