False Pit Scales

Lecanodiaspididae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lecanodiaspididae: /lɛˌkænoʊdaɪˈæspɪdɪdiː/

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Summary

Lecanodiaspididae, or false pit scales, are scale insects characterized by their distinctive corrugated appearance and significant presence on a wide range of host plants. They are predominantly found in the Far East and support mutualistic relationships with ants due to their honeydew production.

Physical Characteristics

Adults are yellow to reddish-brown with a waxy, papery test that has about eight transverse ridges giving it a corrugated appearance. There is a longitudinal ridge in the center and an anal opening with rolled-up edges at the posterior end.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic corrugated appearance and coloration of the test, as well as the presence of transverse and longitudinal ridges.

Habitat

False pit scales primarily inhabit the trunks and branches of shrubs and deciduous trees.

Distribution

Members of the family are found worldwide, but are most numerous in the Far East.

Diet

They feed on the phloem of host plants from various families, predominantly from Fabaceae.

Life Cycle

Females develop through three instar stages while males go through five. Typically, there is one generation per year and scales overwinter as eggs beneath the mother's test.

Reproduction

Reproduction occurs with males present in most species, and usually one generation is produced annually.

Ecosystem Role

They are often associated with ants due to the honeydew they produce, indicating a mutualistic relationship.

Collecting Methods

  • Hand collection from infested plants
  • Sticky traps to capture adults

Preservation Methods

  • Preserving in ethanol
  • Mounting on slides for microscopy

Similar Taxa

Tags

  • scale insects
  • false pit scales
  • Lecanodiaspididae