Conchaspididae

Definition

A small family of scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccoidea) commonly called false armoured scales, characterized by a protective waxy covering that resembles the true armoured scales (Diaspididae) but with distinct morphological and biological differences.

Etymology

From Greek konchē (shell, mussel) + aspis (shield) + -idae (family suffix), referring to the shell-like protective covering of these insects.

Example

Conchaspis capensis, a member of Conchaspididae, secretes a flattened, scale-like test that encloses the body, superficially resembling the armoured tests of Diaspididae but differing in the retention of legs and antennae in adult females.

Synonyms

• false armoured scales

Related Terms

• Diaspididae
• Coccoidea
• scale insects
• test
• armoured scales

Usage Notes

Distinguished from the true armoured scales (Diaspididae) by the presence of functional legs and antennae in adult females and differences in test structure. The family contains relatively few described species compared to other scale insect families. Formerly treated as a subfamily of Coccidae by some authors.