| The citrophilus mealybug, Pseudococcus calceolariae, is a polyphagous pest that has a major impact on fruit crops in central Chile, and is of quarantine importance for many markets. To study many control alternatives, it is important to develop efficient rearing protocols. The objective of this work was to determine mealybug development on three different plant substrates: sprouted potatoes, lemon fruits and Butternut squash. Insects were inoculated on the substrates, maintained at 25 °C and in total darkness until completing their development. Every one to 4 days, advancement on the development was checked by counting the exuvia. Mean developmental time for each stage, adult longevity, fecundity and fertility were determined. Preimaginal developmental... |
