Luzulaspis
Targioni Tozzetti, 1868
Luzulaspis is a of soft scale insects ( Coccidae) established by Targioni Tozzetti in 1868. The genus contains at least two described : Luzulaspis americana, described from North America, and Luzulaspis bisetosa, described from Europe. These scale insects are found in temperate regions of Europe and North America. Very few observations exist in public databases, suggesting either rarity or undercollection.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Luzulaspis: /lʌzjuːˈlæspɪs/
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Identification
Luzulaspis can be distinguished from other soft by features of the female , including the presence of two prominent setae (as indicated by the species epithet 'bisetosa,' meaning 'two-bristled'). Detailed morphological requires examination of microscopic characters such as the arrangement of , the structure of the anal ring, and the distribution of and setae. The genus is placed in Coccidae based on the absence of an and the presence of well-developed legs and in adult females.
Distribution
Europe and North America. Specific distribution records exist for Sweden (SE) and Norway (NO) based on GBIF data. Luzulaspis americana has been documented in North America, while Luzulaspis bisetosa occurs in Europe.
Host Associations
- Luzula - associated with name Luzulaspis derives from Luzula, a genus of rushes (Juncaceae), suggesting historical association with these plants.
Similar Taxa
- CoccusBoth are of soft scale insects in Coccidae; Luzulaspis differs in specific setal arrangements and body shape.
- EulecaniumAnother Coccidae with similar general ; Luzulaspis is distinguished by characters of the anal ring and setal patterns.
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was established by Targioni Tozzetti in 1868. The two described were named much later: L. bisetosa by Borchsenius in 1952 and L. americana by Koteja & Howell in 1979. The etymology of the genus name suggests an association with Luzula (woodrushes), though specific records are sparse.
Data scarcity
Only two observations exist in iNaturalist as of the knowledge cutoff, and GBIF records are limited to two European countries. This paucity of data likely reflects the small size and cryptic habit of these insects rather than true rarity, though both may contribute.