Mealybugs of the subfamily Sphaerococcinae are an important agricultural pest in the tropics, as well as a virus vector. Dr. Michael Kosztarab proposes to complete a species-level revision that includes new observations of both male and female adult morphology, and the first thorough documentation of the morphology of immature stages of both sexes. A monograph of the subfamily will be produced, including descriptions, illustrations, and identification keys. Host plant associations will be determined, and cladistic methods will be used to reconstruct ancestor-descendant relationships within the scale insects for the first time. The proposed research will establish a new level of reliability in mealybug systematics by incorporating data on both sexes at all stages of development. The project also represents the first extensive application of phylogenetic methods on the group. Results of the project will have significant impact in pest management and environmental monitoring.
