Whole Genome Sequencing of Phenacoccus saccharifolii infesting Sugarcane fields in Trichy, Tamil Nadu
This project presents the whole genome sequencing of Phenacoccus saccharifolii, a mealy bug species collected from sugarcane fields in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, India. P. saccharifolii is a phloem-feeding hemipteran pest known to cause significant yield losses in sugarcane through direct feeding damage and the facilitation of sooty mold via honeydew secretion. Despite its agricultural importance, genomic resources for this species remain unavailable. By generating a high-quality genome assembly, this study aims to uncover the genetic basis of host adaptation, detoxification mechanisms, and potential insecticide resistance.