Lepidosaphes camelliae
Hoke, 1921
Camellia Scale
Lepidosaphes camelliae is a insect in the Diaspididae, commonly known as the Camellia Scale. It is an that feeds on camellia plants. The species was described by Hoke in 1921 and has been documented in North America and East Asia. It is one of the -associated species that has been studied in relation to agents, particularly in the Aphytis.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lepidosaphes camelliae: /lɛpɪdoʊˈsɑːfiːz kəˈmɛli.aɪ/
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Identification
As an in the Lepidosaphes, this possesses a hard, protective waxy covering (the test) that separates it from soft scales. The specific identification of L. camelliae from requires examination of microscopic features of the female's and perivulvar pores. It is distinguished from other Lepidosaphes species by association with Camellia and specific morphological characters of the test and body.
Habitat
Associated with cultivated and wild camellia plants; occurs on foliage and stems of shrubs.
Distribution
Mexico, United States of America (conterminous 48 states), Cuba, China, and Japan.
Diet
Feeds on camellia plants (Camellia ).
Host Associations
- Camellia - primary
Ecological Role
Serves as for in the Aphytis, including Aphytis lepidosaphes, which has been used as a agent.
Human Relevance
Economic pest of ornamental camellia plants; subject to efforts using Aphytis .
Similar Taxa
- Other Lepidosaphes speciesRequires microscopic examination of pygidial characters and association for differentiation.
- Unaspis euonymi (Euonymus Scale)Similar but occurs on different plants (Euonymus) and has distinct test shape.