Distribution and infestation rates of Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, 1898 (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) in cotton fields in Aydın province (Türkiye) and its alternative host plants

Authors : Hüseyin Yerlikaya, Sergül Çopul, Mehmet Bora Kaydan, Hüseyin Başpınar

Pages : 449-459

Doi:10.16970/entoted.1576170

View : 77 | Download : 95

Publication Date : 2025-01-21

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Intense infestations of a mealybug species were observed on cotton plants in Aydın province (Türkiye) between 2022 and 2023. Insect samples were identified as the cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, 1898 (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae). In 2024, surveys were conducted to determine the distribution, infestation rates and alternative hosts of the cotton mealybug in cotton cultivation areas in Aydın. As a result of the surveys, it was determined that the cotton mealybug was distributed in 12 districts of Aydın province and 44.37% of total cotton cultivation areas was infested in Aydın. The infestation rates per field varied between 0.00% and 100%, and for each district changed between 0.00% and 46.13%. In and around cotton fields, 27 alternative host plants were found. Of these, four species are for the first time recorded as hosts of cotton mealybug, of which the most common host plants were Conyza spp. (Asterales: Asteraceae).
Keywords : Pamuk unlubiti, ilk kayıt, Gossypium hirsutum, zararlı böcek, istilacı türler, Türkiye