Cochineal insect on cactus: causes, symptoms, prevention

The cochineal insect is one of the pests that greatly threatens agricultural crops, especially cactus. In this article from the “WORLD OF PLANTS” website, we discuss the causes of the spread and symptoms of cochineal insect infection on cactus and effective methods of combating it.

 Introduction to the cochineal insect on cactus

• The scientific name of this insect is Dactylopius coccus.
• Type of disease: Insect pest.
• Disease family: The cochineal insect belongs to the family Dactylopiidae.

The cochineal insect is a dangerous pest that affects plants, especially cacti, and causes significant destruction.

Symptoms of the cochineal insect on aloe vera

• The appearance of cottony white spots on the surface of the plant.
• The color of the plant changes to yellow or brown.
• General weakness of the plant and delayed growth.
• The presence of small insects fixed on the leaves and stems.
• The cochineal insect is a dangerous pest that affects plants, especially cacti, and causes significant destruction.

 Causes of the cochineal insect on aloe vera

• Insect transmissionThe cochineal insect is transmitted between plants by wind, birds, or by humans.
• Environmental conditionsThe insect prefers dry environments and areas with high temperatures.

Suitable conditions for the spread of the cochineal insect on cactus

• High temperaturesThe spread of the cochineal insect increases at high temperatures.
• DehydrationThe insect prefers dry environments with low humidity.
• Not periodically cleaning plantsNeglecting to clean plants leads to the accumulation of insects and their spread faster.

Development cycle of the cochineal insect on cactus

• Eggs: Females lay eggs on the surface of the plant.
• Larvae: The eggs hatch and turn into small larvae that feed on plant sap.
• Adult insects: The larvae grow into adults and begin to reproduce again.

 Pictures of cochineal disease (at its beginning and after its spread)

Losses of the spread of the cochineal insect on cactus

• Economic lossesThe cochineal insect causes significant material losses due to the destruction of infected plants.
• Environmental damage: Causes a reduction in plant numbers, affecting the local ecosystem.

 Strategy for controlling the cochineal insect on cactus

• Periodic monitoring: Inspect plants regularly to detect insects in their early stages.
• Use of pesticidesSpray appropriate insecticides on infected plants.
• InsulationIsolate infected plants to prevent the insect from spreading to healthy plants.

Preventive measures to prevent the occurrence of the cochineal insect on cactus

• Clean plants regularly: Remove dirt and small insects from the surface of plants.
• Pruning: Trim the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly.
• Regular watering: Maintaining plants moisture to prevent a dry environment suitable for the insect.

 Recommendations for organic and chemical control of the cochineal insect on cactus

• Organic control of the cochineal insect on cactus:
  • Use neem oil as an insect repellent.
  • Spray plants with a solution of soap and water to get rid of the cochineal insect.
• Chemical control of the cochineal insect on cactus:
  • Use of insecticides such as chlorpyrifos and malathion.
  • Spray pesticides periodically on susceptible plants.

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