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Possible mealy bug infestation on cymbidium - not sure

Discussion in 'Issues, Disease and Pests' started by JRM, Nov 15, 2016.

  1. Nov 15, 2016 #1
    JRM

    JRM New Member

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    Hi all

    I've just noticed some white shell-like patches on the leaf undersides of a cymbidium I bought recently. I've attached some photos.
    Not sure exactly what it is but shell seems to come off if rubbed with a fingernail.
    Is it possible this is mealy bug? If so, would some rubbing alcohol wiped on the underside of the leaves with cotton wool do the trick? Infestation looks like it's at the early stages so just want to do the right thing as fast as I can.

    Thanks for in advance for any help you can give.
     

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    Last edited: Nov 15, 2016
  2. Nov 15, 2016 #2
    Ray

    Ray Orchid Iconoclast Supporting Member

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    Looks to me like packets of eggs placed by some other insect. What is more concerning it what looks to be general pitting due to mites.
     
  3. Nov 15, 2016 #3
    JRM

    JRM New Member

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    Hi Ray thanks for your reply. Do you mean spider mites? I thought pitting meant indentations - there are obviously lighter coloured patches (is that what you mean?) but no indentations as such.
    As for the insect - do you have any idea what it might be? Could small spiders do this?
    I should mention i live in Malta - we tend to have hot humid summers
     
    Last edited: Nov 15, 2016
  4. Nov 15, 2016 #4
    Latouria Lover

    Latouria Lover New Member

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    It could be white scale. It will have the "shell" like you describe similar to brown scale only it is white.
     
  5. Nov 15, 2016 #5
    KellyW

    KellyW Orchid wonk Staff Member Supporting Member

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    Definitely not mealy bugs. They are fuzzy and soft bodied. This looks like scale to me. When you scrape it off with your fingernail does it look a bit like a fish scale? Remove all of the visible scale or what ever they are then a good cleaning with cotton wool soaked in 70% isopropyl alcohol would be good for removal of smaller scale instars and mites. The 70% isopropyl alcohol goes by different names in different countries. If this name is not familiar to you ask the local growers what to use. IF you have mites as well there may be a red tint on the cotton when you wipe the leaves.
    Please let us know what you find and good luck.
     
  6. Nov 16, 2016 #6
    JRM

    JRM New Member

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    Thanks to all for your very helpful responses. It's a case of both white scale and mites. Appropriate action is being taken as suggested.