MEALYBUGS

This insect is native to South America but has been introduced into the southern U.S. and in Hawaii. It also has been deliberately introduced to Australia where it is a biological control for cactus considered to be serious pest plants in that country.

Currently found in both Europe and North America, and known from Europe 50 years prior to its discovery in the U.S., so possibly European in origin.

Uncertain, but possibly native to the western U.S.

Likely native to the western U.S., and found in California.

Native to Australia, but now occurring in other parts of the world where its host trees have been imported as ornamentals.

Possibly native to the Australian region, but now found throughout the world.

Uncertain origin, but possibly from either South America or Australia, and introduced into the U.S. in the late 19th century.

This mealybug is native to Southeast Asia but was discovered in the Caribbean in 1994 and in Florida in 2002, and it continues to expand its range in the U.S. It also now is found in Africa, Australia, and South America.

Uncertain, as it is found commonly throughout the world in warm climates. However, since 10 species in the genus Ferrisia are found in the U.S. it is believed that this species may be native to North America.