First record of Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on Albizia julibrissin - Honeybee foraging on mealybug honeydew

• DOI: 10.2478/hppj-2025-0003
• Publication Date: 2025-01-28T18:56:51Z
• Authors: A.E. Tsagkarakis; M.B. Kaydan; G.J. Stathas; G. Gastouniotis
• Keywords: Mealybug; Honeydew

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) Athens, Greece. This is first global record of G. Greece, as hosts M. . All developmental stages: eggs, nymphs, adult males females, were present. Honeybees ( Apis mellifera L.) observed actively foraging abundant honeydew secreted by mealybugs. Further research necessary to assess potential impact this invasive pest host plants significance its an alternative food resource for honeybees.