Florida red scale

Definition

A cosmopolitan armored scale insect (family Diaspididae) that infests citrus and numerous woody ornamentals, producing a circular, reddish-brown protective cover (test) on leaves, fruit, and twigs. The species is a major agricultural pest in subtropical and tropical regions, causing chlorosis, fruit blemishing, and dieback through phloem feeding. Its parasitoid Aphytis holoxanthus is widely used in classical biological control programs.

Etymology

From the U.S. state of Florida, where it was first recognized as a significant pest in the early 20th century, plus 'red' for the color of the adult female's test and 'scale' for the protective covering characteristic of Coccoidea.

Example

Heavy infestations of Florida red scale on grapefruit can render fruit unmarketable due to the conspicuous red-brown covers embedded in the rind, prompting integrated management combining oil sprays and releases of Aphytis holoxanthus.

Synonyms

• Chrysomphalus aonidum
• circular black scale
• red scale

Related Terms

• armored scale
• Diaspididae
• test
• Coccoidea
• Aphytis
• Biological control
• Integrated Pest Management
• citrus pest

Usage Notes

The common name 'Florida red scale' is sometimes applied loosely to other reddish armored scales; precise identification requires examination of the exuviae and pygidial morphology. The scientific name Chrysomphalus aonidum (formerly Aonidiella aurantii in part) is preferred in taxonomic literature. Not to be confused with California red scale (Aonidiella aurantii), a congeneric pest with similar host range but distinct morphological and biological characteristics.