Distribution and ecology of root mealybugs associated with black pepper (Piper nigrum Linnaeus) in Karnataka and Kerala, India

Abstract

Surveys conducted in 297 gardens in 99 locations in Kerala and Karnataka in India showed that five species of mealybugs (Planococcus sp., P. citri, P. lilacinus, Dysmicoccus brevipes and Ferrisia virgata) infested the roots and basal region of stem (under the soil) of black pepper vines (Piper nigrum). Infestation was observed in all the taluks surveyed in Wayanad (Kerala) and Kodagu (Karnataka) districts and also in Udumbanchola, Kozhikode, Taliparamba (Kerala), Alur and Saklespur (Karnataka) taluks. The infestation was positively and significantly correlated with altitude and was observed in all cultivars/varieties, and on vines trailed on all standards (Support trees). Resulting in defoliation, yellowing and wilting of leaves and morality of vines. Phytophthora capsici, Meloidogyne incognita and Radopholus similis were associated with root mealbug infested vines. Colonies of root mealybugs were also observed on 18 species of crop/weed plants especially during summer in black pepper gardens infested with the pest. Anaplolepis sp., Crematogaster sp., Technomyrmex sp. and two unidentified species of ants were associated with root mealybug colonies