First record of Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on Albizia julibrissin - Honeybee foraging on mealybug honeydew Πρώτη καταγραφή του ψευδόκοκκου Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Pseudococcidae) στο καλλωπιστικό φυτό Albizia julibrissin - Διατροφή μελισσών στις μελιτώδεις εκκρίσεις
Hellenic Plant Protection Journal, vol.18, no.1, pp.13-16, 2025 (Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 18 Issue: 1
- Publication Date: 2025
- Doi Number: 10.2478/hppj-2025-0003
- Journal Name: Hellenic Plant Protection Journal
- Journal Indexes: Scopus, Central & Eastern European Academic Source (CEEAS)
- Page Numbers: pp.13-16
- Keywords: Albizia julibrissin, Apis mellifera, climate change, Grevillea robusta, honeydew, Maconellicoccus hirsutus
- Çukurova University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Summary In August 2024, the pink hibiscus mealybug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Pseudococcidae), was found in heavy infestations on Albizia julibrissin Durazz. (Fabaceae) and Grevillea robusta A. Cunn. (Proteaceae) in Athens, Greece. This is the first global record of A. julibrissin and the first record on G. robusta in Greece, as hosts of M. hirsutus. All developmental stages: eggs, nymphs, and adult males and females, were present. Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) were observed actively foraging on the abundant honeydew secreted by the mealybugs. Further research is necessary to assess the potential impact of this invasive pest on host plants in Greece, and the significance of its honeydew as an alternative food resource for honeybees.