Ovaticoccus agavium
(Douglas, 1888)
Felt Scale
Ovaticoccus agavium is a of felt in the Eriococcidae. It is a phloem-feeding insect that produces a characteristic felt-like ovisac. The species has been recorded across multiple continents including Europe, North America, Africa, and the Middle East, suggesting either a wide native range or multiple introductions. As a member of the felt scales, it shares morphological and traits with other Eriococcidae, including reduced mobility in females and protective waxy coverings.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ovaticoccus agavium: /ˌoʊ.vəˈtɪ.kə.kəs əˈɡeɪ.vi.əm/
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Distribution
Recorded from Russia, Sicily, France, United Kingdom, Ukraine, Italy, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and the United States of America. GBIF records indicate presence in Europe and Northern Asia (excluding China), Africa, Middle America, and North America.
Diet
Phloem-feeding; imbibes nutrient-rich plant sap.
Life Cycle
Females produce felt-like ovisacs containing . Nymphs () disperse to settle on new tissue. Multiple may occur annually in warm regions.
Behavior
stage actively disperses to locate feeding sites. Some scale insects in this group exhibit phoretic by attaching to birds, mammals, or other insects, and may utilize wind-assisted 'takeoff' for aerial dispersal.
Ecological Role
Honeydew supports growth of fungi. Serves as prey for lady beetles, lacewings, and parasitic .
Similar Taxa
- Acanthococcus lagerstroemiaeBoth are felt scales (Eriococcidae) that produce white, felt-like ovisacs and excrete honeydew leading to . A. lagerstroemiae is specifically associated with crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia) in North America, while O. agavium has broader associations.