Population fluctuation of the pineapple mealybug in two pineapple (Ananas comosus [L.] Merr.) varieties in Huimanguillo Tabasco, Mexico

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Objective: to determine the specie, the prevalence and seasonal distribution of Dysmicoccus spp.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The present study was carried out in two pineapples producing localities MD2 and cabezona varieties in the municipality of Huimanguillo, Tabasco The seasonal distribution and percentage of infestation were determined in both localities/varieties from January to June 2021. Monthly, 40 plants were sampled at random, in an area of 4 ha per locality. At the plant level, roots, stems, and leaves of the base of the plant and fruits were checked for the presence of this mealybug.

Results: The species present were D. brevipes. The greatest abundance of mealybug was found in the bighead variety. D. brevipes are mostly located at the base of the stem and old basal leaves, both in the var. bighead as in MD2, by 85.46 and 61.75%, respectively. From January to April, the populations of D. brevipes were moderate, a period with the highest temperature; while the highest populations were recorded towards mid-June when the rains begin.

Study limitations/implications: Climatic variable and immature stages of D. brevipes may affect the observations of population dynamics.

Findings/Conclusions: D. brevipes was found to feed more on basal leaves and stems. To obtain population dynamics and predict the total number of insects per plant and their temporal and spatial distribution, the entire production cycle must be considered together with the climatic parameters, to create a control strategy directed at the dates of moderate abundance.

Key words: Pineapple mealybugs, seasonal distribution, Huimanguillo.