Margarodes

Definition

A genus of scale insects (family Margarodidae, order Hemiptera) characterized by subterranean, waxy, pearl-like females that live in association with ants. The type species, Margarodes formicarum, was described from specimens found in soil on the Bahamas. Species in this genus are notable among scale insects for their ground-dwelling habit and protective wax coverings, contrasting with the aerial, plant-feeding habits typical of most Coccoidea.

Etymology

From Greek margarites (pearl), referring to the waxy, pearl-like appearance of the females in soil.

Example

Margarodes formicarum, the type species, was originally discovered by Lansdown Guilding in 1828 living in soil among ant colonies in the Bahamas, illustrating the myrmecophilous associations common in this genus.

Related Terms

• Margarodidae
• scale insect
• Coccoidea
• ground pearl
• myrmecophily
• Hemiptera

Usage Notes

The genus name has been applied to unrelated taxa in other kingdoms (e.g., a cnidarian genus Margarodes Sandberger, 1842, and a moth genus Margarodes Guenée, 1854), so context is essential for correct identification. In entomological usage, Margarodes Guilding, 1829 (or 1828) is the valid hemipteran genus. Some species, such as Margarodes vitis and Margarodes capensis, are agricultural pests of grapevines and other crops.