A Simple Technique for Mealybug Multiplication on Grooveless Pumpkins

A simple roping technique that facilitates rapid multiplication of mealybugs even on smooth pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata Poir) devoid of ridges and furrows is described. After 20-40 days of ovisac inoculation, populations of Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) were 8-12 times significantly higher on grooveless pumpkins secured vertically across with 4 mm thick ropes at 2-4cm interspacing at the widest girth than that on bare grooveless pumpkins. However, populations increased by only 2-3 times on deep-grooved pumpkins and by 4-5 times on shallow-grooved fruits. Mealybugs were significantly more along 4mm thicker top rope than along 2mm thinner twine running vertically across the fruit surface.