Evaluation of the cold effect on the mortality of Pseudococcus viburni (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) eggs on fresh pear fruits for export

Cichón L.; Garrido S.; Gastaminza G.; Argañañaz L.M.; Gonzalez M.; Varone L. · Revista de la Sociedad Entomologica Argentina (2026) · DOI: 10.25085/rsea.850107

Resumen

The mealybug Pseudococcus viburni (Signoret), is a polyphagous pest impacting various crops, including apples and pears in the region of Alto Valle, Río Negro, Argentina. Its honeydew excretion promotes sooty mold, diminishing fruit quality and affecting marketability. Furthermore, its quarantine status complicates trade with Mexico, a key market for Argentine pears. Existing pest management practices, including insecticides, have proven insufficient due to the mealybug's cryptic behavior and treatment resistance. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a 42-day cold storage treatment at 0 °C, used as an export strategy to manage P. viburni eggs. Two cold storage conditions were tested: regular atmosphere and controlled atmosphere, with four replicates per storage treatment and one control (kept at standard rearing conditions), corresponding to four placement dates in the cold chambers. The results showed that both storage treatments achieved complete mortality of P. viburni eggs, with a treatment efficacy surpassing the probit-9 value. These findings confirm that the 42-day cold treatment meets quarantine requirements and ensures pest control. The study's outcomes validate the current cold treatment at origin protocol, simplifying post-harvest procedures for Argentine pear exports. © CICHÓN et al.