Host range, incidence and damage of pink hibiscus mealybug, maconellicoccus hirsutus infesting ornamental plants

Five different locations namely; PSTU campus, BRRI Barishal, RARS Dhaka University campus and Mohera Jamidarbari landscapes of Tangail district were selected to study the host range, incidence damage pink hibiscus mealybug. Results revealed that Pink mealybug was found feed on 22 known plants from 7 families 6 unknown plants. The highest per leaf recorded century plant lowest Mussaenda. number mealybugs twig Elite patabahar (30) followed by Hibiscus (24) while Croton (5). Among five percentage infestation observed at (52%) Barishal (35%). infested leaves Century (47%) Laurentti (12%). twigs (60%) Jatropha (50%) Maity (13%). These findings could be helpful adopt management strategy against in proper time protect landscape ornamentals increase beautification. SAARC J. Agric., 21(1): 203-215 (2023)