Be in control of mealybugs in citrus with Citripar and Cryptobug

Added on 01 January 2025

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Be in control of mealybugs in citrus with Citripar and Cryptobug

Courtesy of Koppert

A World Citrus Organisation (WCO) report forecasts that global citrus production will amount to 103.7 million tons in the year 2023/2024. As a loved crop all over the world, citrus growers face many pest challenges to protect their harvests. One of these challenges is mealybugs.

The dangers of mealybug damage

Mealybugs pose significant challenges in citrus cultivation, primarily due to their ability to reproduce rapidly and their resilience against various control measures. These sap-sucking pests feed on the phloem of citrus plants, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and reduced fruit quality. In addition to direct damage, mealybugs excrete honeydew, which encourages the growth of sooty mold, further impairing photosynthesis and aesthetic value. Their presence can also attract ants, which protect mealybugs from natural predators, complicating management efforts.