Antonina graminis ( Maskell, 1897 )

Evans, Gregory A. & Abd-Rabou, Shaaban, 2023, The mealybugs (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Pseudococcidae) of Egypt, Insecta Mundi 2023 (999), pp. 1-83 : 13

Antonina graminis ( Maskell, 1897)

( Figure 2 , after Williams 2004).

Taxonomy. Sphaerococcus graminis Maskell 1897 a: 244 . Type data. HONG KONG: on grass.

Antonina graminis (Maskell) ; Fernald 1903: 121.

Hosts in Egypt. Cynodon sp. ( Takahashi 1928).

Distribution in Egypt. Giza ( Mohammed et al. 1995).

Remarks. This species is worldwide in distribution and has been found on many hosts, most of which are in the families Poaceae or Cyperaceae . It was first reported in Egypt by Takahashi (1928). Mohammed et al. (1995) provided a redescription and illustration of the species. Williams (2001) provided descriptions, illustrations and a key to the African species of Antonina that included this species. This species is known as the “rhodesgrass scale” and is the most widespread and injurious species of the genus. It has been reported from most tropical and temperate areas, often causing damage to pasture and lawn grasses, and is often reported from bamboo species.

Figures

Figure 2. Antonina graminis (after Williams 2004).