The cochineal bugs found on burred pear cactus are fascinating creatures that can easy be misguided for fungus due to their cottony white-hot natural covering . These insects have a alone way of protecting themselves by eliminate this cottony mickle , which acts as a shield against predators and coarse environmental condition .
If you ever come in across these cottony masses on your prickly pear cactus , I promote you to take a closer look . Underneath the protective covering , you will recover small-scale , oval - mold insects with no wings . These insects go to the scale leaf insect family and are commonly have it off as cochineal louse .
Cochineal insects have piercing - fellate mouthparts , which they utilise to feed on the sap of the prickly pear cactus . They attach themselves to the cactus pad and evoke the plant ’s nutrients for their selection . This feeding appendage can weaken the cactus if the plague is severe .
These insects are quite interesting because they have a symbiotic relationship with the prickly pear cactus . While they feed on the cactus , they provide the cactus with tribute against excessive sunlight and certain piranha . It ’s a reciprocally beneficial family relationship where both the louse and the cactus swear on each other for survival .
In condition of appearance , cochineal insect are usually a yellow - browned color . However , their cottony covering can give them a white or gray appearance , making them easily mistaken for fungus . It ’s important to note that the cottony cover is produced by the insect themselves and is not a part of the cactus .
One fascinating fact about cochineal insects is their diachronic implication . These insects have been used for centuries to produce a vibrant red dyestuff known as cochineal . The dye was extremely valued and seek after , specially during the colonial era . Even today , cochineal dye is used in various industries , including the food and textile industries .
While cochineal worm are generally harmless to human being , they can be a nuisance if their population grow too big . An infestation can weaken the prickly Pyrus communis cactus and make it more susceptible to other diseases and pests . If you comment a substantial plague , it ’s advisable to take measures to control their population , such as using insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils .
Cochineal bugs on briary pear cactus are little , oval louse with a cottony white covering . They belong to the plate insect family and have piercing - suckle mouthparts . These insects form a symbiotic human relationship with the cactus , providing protection while feeding on its sap . While they are interesting creatures , an excessive population of cochineal louse can be detrimental to the health of the cactus .
Caroline Bates
