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Prickly pear cochineal

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Prickly pear cochineal

Insect — Hemiptera

What is an opportunist?

An "opportunist" is a population (fungi, bacteria, insects…) that takes advantage of a favourable environment to settle in, multiply and feed on it. It often develops when the natural defences of the affected organism are weakened — for genetic reasons or linked to context (water stress, deficiencies, nutritional imbalances, overcrowding…). This is typically the case in monocultures, where a single host plant, uniform and present in large numbers, offers ideal ground for it to spread.

Identification key : Scale insects and mealybugs (Adult (and nymphs resembling the adult))

Scientific name : Dactylopius opuntiae

Other names : Opuntia cochineal scale

American scale insect related to the carmine cochineal, living on the pads of prickly pears and nopales (Opuntia) under white cottony wax; when crushed it releases a red fluid. Dense colonies dry out the pads and can kill the plant. It has spread in the Mediterranean basin, particularly in Morocco and southern Spain.

Crops affected : Cacti

Source : Dactylopius opuntiae (DACLOP)[Overview] — EPPO Global Database — EPPO

This page lists the bio-preparations in the collection that other references associate with this opportunist: Prickly pear cochineal.

Warning: the associations between recipes and opportunists come from other references (traditional practices, publications, user feedback). They are neither a recommendation nor a claim of effectiveness. There is no certainty regarding the preparation, application and use of these bio-preparations. See the regulations

No published recipe is associated with this opportunist yet.

See also

Crops

Cacti

Opportunists of the same crops

Mediterranean fruit fly Tomato spotted wilt virus Pink hibiscus mealybug False codling moth Cactus moth

← Referenced opportunists

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