Population dynamics, economic injury levels and life table construction of mealybugs: A review

Mealybugs are one of the most destructive pests in agriculture, affecting a wide range of crops globally. Their ability to adapt to different environmental conditions, reproduce rapidly, and cause extensive damage makes them a significant challenge for farmers and agricultural managers. The management of mealybug populations requires an understanding of their ecology and the integration of various control strategies, including biological, chemical, and cultural methods. According to Borkakati et al. (2024), a comprehensive approach to mealybug management is essential to minimize economic losses and ensure sustainable agricultural practices. The population dynamics of mealybugs, particularly Phenacoccus solenopsis, have been widely studied due to their significant impact on various crops. This review explores key studies on mealybug population trends, environmental influences, economic injury levels (EIL), and life table constructions for effective pest management. Research by Suroshe et al. (2019) and Shah et al. (2015) indicates that mealybug populations are positively correlated with temperature and humidity, though variability exists in different regions. Natural enemies like parasitoids and hyperparasitoids also influence mealybug populations, presenting potential for biological control. Charles (1982) and Haviland et al. (2015) assess yield losses and establish economic thresholds, highlighting the critical importance of early intervention to prevent crop damage. Life table studies, such as those by Nisha and Kennedy (2017a) and Sahito et al. (2017), provide insights into the population growth, mortality, and reproductive rates of mealybugs and their natural enemies. These studies underscore the role of ecological, biological, and environmental factors in managing mealybug populations. Future research should focus on field-based long-term studies to refine pest management models and improve the efficacy of integrated pest management (IPM) programs.