Ant-mutualisms
Guides
Toumeyella
tortoise scales, pine tortoise scales
Toumeyella is a genus of soft scale insects (family Coccidae) commonly known as tortoise scales. These sedentary, sap-feeding insects infest conifers and broadleaf trees, with females protected by a waxy, shell-like covering. Several species are significant forest and ornamental pests, including T. liriodendri (tuliptree scale) and T. pini (striped pine scale). The genus is characterized by phloem-feeding habits, honeydew production, and frequent mutualistic associations with ants.