INJURIOUS AND BENEFICIAL INSECTS OF CALIFORNIA. 



131 



usually as long or longer than the body. These gave rise to the com- 

 mon name and easily distinguish the insect from all other species in 

 the State. 



Life History. — No eggs are laid by this species, the young being 

 born alive. Several generations appear each year, in fact, in the south- 

 ern part of the State the breeding extends practically throughout the 

 entire year. The life cycle occupies about two months. 



Fig. 110. — The long-tailed mealy bug, Pseudococcus 

 longispinus (Targ. ). Enlarged twice. (Author's illus- 

 tration, Mo. Bui. Cal. Hort. Com.) 



Nature of Work. — This species attacks all parts of the host, but 

 is usually found among the leaves, especially of such plants as the 

 dracenas, which are often very seriously infested. Black smutting 

 always accompanies severe attacks. 



Distribution. — It occurs generally throughout the State, but is par- 

 ticularly bad in greenhouses and ornamental gardens. 



Food Plants.— A large list of plants are attacked by the long-tailed 

 mealy bug, among which are the following: Rex begonia, calla. Cine- 

 raria, citron, Coleus, croton, dracena, ferns, fig, Flacourtia sepiaria, 

 fuchsia, grapefruit, grape, guava, lemon, lobster cactus, mango, moon- 

 flower, Nephrodium, oleander, Opuntia, orange. Guadeloupe palm, 

 plum, primrose (Primula obconica), sago palm, Stangeria schizodbn, 

 Strelitzia gigantea, umbrella plant, carob and Zamia. 



Control. — Control measures are the same as recommended for the 

 citrus mealy bug. 



