Dysmicoccus wistariae
(Green, 1923)
Taxus Mealybug
Dysmicoccus wistariae is a mealybug in the Pseudococcidae, originally described as Pseudococcus wistariae by Green in 1923. It is known by the "Taxus Mealybug" and has been recorded from multiple countries across North America, Asia, and Oceania. The species is part of the diverse mealybug fauna that includes approximately 2,000 species globally. Like other mealybugs, it is a soft-bodied insect with a waxy covering.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dysmicoccus wistariae: //dɪsˌmɪˈkɒkəs wɪsˈtɑriˌi//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
Recorded from Kiribati, China, United States of America, United Kingdom, South Korea, Russia, Japan, and Canada. Present in North America and Southern Asia. Within the United States, present in the conterminous 48 states.
Host Associations
- Taxus - "Taxus Mealybug" indicates association with yew (Taxus) , though specific records are not detailed in available sources
Similar Taxa
- Dysmicoccus mcdanieliSame ; D. mcdanieli was introduced to Florida in 2010 and is one of several Dysmicoccus , though D. wistariae is not specifically mentioned as invasive in Florida
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Pseudococcus wistariae by Green in 1923, later transferred to the Dysmicoccus. The specific epithet "wistariae" (an alternate spelling of wisteria) suggests a possible original association, though the current refers to Taxus.