First report of invasive mealybug Hypogeococcus pungens Granara de Willink (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Pseudococcidae) in India

Over the last decade, India has witnessed unintentional entry of five species of invasive species of mealybugs, perhaps due to globalization and global trade, leading to negative economic and ecological consequences. Through this paper, the first occurrence of the destructive mealybug Hypogeococcus pungens Granara de Willink is reported in India infesting two nursery plant species of Alternanthera and a wild Portulaca sp. As early detection, identification, and rapid reporting are essential for the successful management of destructive species, the field and diagnostic characters of slide mounted H. pungens were described in details with help of field and microphotographic images. The identity of the mealybug was also confirmed through molecular studies by sequencing mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COX I) and 28 S ribosomal gene regions. Information on host range, natural enemies, and distribution of the mealybug is provided. Management options in the event of an outbreak are discussed briefly. This new arrival warrants special attention in India as it is a potentially damaging plant pest in landscapes, and vertical gardening practiced in offices, commercial complexes, and luxury apartments.