MEALYBUG

any small sap-sucking insect of the family Pseudococcidae (order Homoptera). They are worldwide in distribution and attack citrus trees and potted plants. Observed most frequently is the ovoid, sluggish mature female, about 1 cm (0.4 inch) long. The name mealybug is descriptive of the insect's body, which is covered by a white sticky powder resembling cornmeal. The females and crawlers (the active young) cluster along the veins and on the undersides of leaves; the males are active two-winged fliers. Common members of the Pseudococcidae family are the citrus mealybug (Pseudococcus citri) and the citrophilus mealybug (P. gahani). Biological control and organic insecticides have been effective against these pests.