Damage Symptoms:

Stunted Growth: Plants may exhibit reduced size and vigour due to nutrient deprivation from sap-sucking.

Yellowing and Wilting:

Leaves may turn yellow and wilt as mealybugs feed on the plant's sap.

Honeydew and Sooty Mold:

Mealybugs excrete honeydew, a sticky substance that can be colonized by black sooty mold, making the plant look dirty. 

Leaf Curring and Distortion: Infested leaves may exhibit curling or twisting, and in severe cases, plant death.

Reduced Fruit and Flower Production: Mealybugs can negatively impact plant health, leading to reduced yields of fruits and flowers. 

White, Cottony Masses: Mealybugs often form white, cottony masses on leaves, stems, and other plant parts, 

Target Pests:

Cotton: Mealybugs are a significant pest of cotton, causing reduced yield and quality.

Vegetables: Various vegetable crops are susceptible to mealybug infestations, including Brinjal (eggplant) and others.