Asterolecaniidae

How to pronounce Asterolecaniidae: //ˌæstɛroʊlɛˈkeɪni.aɪdiː//

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Asterolecaniidae is a family of scale insects known as pit scales, affecting various plants and causing notable tissue deformations.

Typically cause a depression in the host plant's tissues, leading to distortions; body usually covered by a clear or transparent test.

Look for deformations on leaves or shoots of host plants where these insects reside.

On a range of hosts, especially common on oaks, bamboos, and ornamental plants.

Most regions of the world, with abundance in the northern hemisphere.

Feeding on plant sap by piercing plant tissues.

Pit scales have three female instars and five male instars; females lay eggs under the protective test after dying and shrinking.

Males are less common and develop similarly to females under a test.

Act as herbivores which can impact the health of host plants, potentially affecting larger ecosystems.