Abstract

GARCIA-ALVAREZ, Nadia C. et al. Seasonal distribution and reproductive potential of the pink hibiscus mealybug (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) in Nayarit, Mexico. Rev. Mex. Cienc. Agríc [online]. 2014, vol.5, n.1, pp.5-16. ISSN 2007-0934.

The pink hibiscus mealybug (PHM) Maconellicoccus hirsutus Green is a pest that attacks a variety of crops, have high reproductive capacity and dispersion. The objectives were to determine the annual population fluctuation, define the potential number of generations per year and the risk areas of PHM in Nayarit. The fluctuation of populations was obtained from the monitoring performed for two years with three natural hosts of the pest. To determine the potential of generations, we used temperature data from weather stations in the state primary, heat units' requirements and thresholds for development of the species. Lower populations of PHM rainfall were recorded during August to October; populations were moderate during periods of low temperatures from November to February. The highest average occurred during the rainless period and relatively high temperatures from March to June. In the wild host Acacia sp. ("Rabo de iguana") recorded the highest densities of the pest regarding soursop and teak. Four towns in Nayarit showed the highest reproductive potential to record between 14.4 and 13.2 generations per year. In areas not yet invaded by the plague, it could cause 7.5 to 11 generations per year. The coastal area where agricultural production is concentrated surface was increased risk of PHM.

Keywords : Macconellicoccus hirsutus; generations; mealybug.

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