Honeydew-producer
Guides
Acanalonia conica
Green Cone-headed Planthopper
Acanalonia conica is a planthopper species native to North America that has established invasive populations across Europe since its first detection in Italy in 2003. Adults are bright green with a distinctive conical head and red eyes, while nymphs are brown with white waxy filaments. The species is univoltine, highly polyphagous, and produces abundant honeydew. In Europe, it has been observed forming denser populations than in its native range and is considered a potential agricultural pest.
Acanaloniidae
Acanaloniid Planthoppers, Cone-headed Planthoppers
Acanaloniidae is a family of planthoppers in the superfamily Fulgoroidea, sometimes treated as a subfamily (Acanaloniinae) within Issidae. The family comprises approximately 7 genera including Acanalonia, Batusa, Chlorochara, and Philatis. Members are characterized by their distinctive cone-headed appearance and reticulate forewing venation. Several species have been introduced to Europe, including Acanalonia conica and Acanalonia bivittata, where they represent the first Nearctic representatives of this family.
Acanthococcus azaleae
Azalea Bark Scale
Acanthococcus azaleae, commonly known as the azalea bark scale, is a felt scale insect in the family Eriococcidae. It is native to Asia and has been introduced to North America, Europe, and other regions through global trade. The species feeds on azaleas (Rhododendron spp.) and related ericaceous plants, forming white, felt-like coverings on bark. It was initially confused with the invasive crapemyrtle bark scale (Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae), which was first identified in Texas in 2004 and later determined to be a distinct species. The azalea bark scale produces honeydew that supports sooty mold growth and can cause branch dieback in heavy infestations.
Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae
crapemyrtle bark scale, CMBS
Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae, commonly called crapemyrtle bark scale or CMBS, is an invasive felt scale insect native to East Asia. First detected in the United States near Dallas, Texas in 2004, it has since spread to at least 17 states across the Southeast and Middle Atlantic regions. This phloem-feeding pest primarily infests crapemyrtles (Lagerstroemia spp.), forming distinctive white, felt-like coverings on trunks and branches. Heavy infestations cause branch dieback, reduce flowering, and promote black sooty mold growth through honeydew excretion. The scale has also been confirmed on alternative hosts including American beautyberry, pomegranate, apple, and spirea.
Aconophora compressa
lantana bug, lantana treehopper, lantana stemsucking treehopper, lantana sap-sucking bug
Aconophora compressa is a treehopper (family Membracidae) native to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia. It was introduced to Australia in 1995 as a biological control agent for the invasive weed Lantana camara. The species is brown, up to 8 mm long, with a thorn-shaped body and produces copious honeydew. It has been documented to attack non-target plants, particularly fiddlewood (Citharexylum spinosum) in Australia, leading to its discontinuation as a biocontrol agent after 2001. It was also rejected for use in South Africa due to unacceptable risks to indigenous Lippia species.
treehopperbiological-controlinvasive-species-managementMembracidaephloem-feedermaternal-caregregarioushoneydew-producernon-target-effectsLantana-camaraMexicoAustraliaSouth-AfricaVerbenaceaeCitharexylum-spinosumLippiaAloysia-citrodorathermal-tolerancestem-suckingsap-feedingegg-guardinginstarsnymphal-developmentweed-biocontrolhost-range-expansionecological-risk-assessmentbiosecurityWalker-1851AconophoriniMembracinaeHemipteraAuchenorrhynchaCicadomorphaMembracoideaAleurocanthus
Aleurocanthus is a genus of whiteflies in the family Aleyrodidae, established by Quaintance & Baker in 1914. Species in this genus are significant agricultural pests, particularly of citrus and other cultivated crops. The genus includes notable species such as the orange spiny whitefly (A. spiniferus) and the citrus blackfly (A. woglumi), both of which have been subjects of extensive biological control programs due to their economic impact. The genus is characterized by distinctive spiny or ornamented puparial cases and exhibits sexual dimorphism in some species.
Allokermes
oak kermes scales
Allokermes is a genus of gall-like kermes scale insects in the family Kermesidae, native to the United States and specialized on oak trees (Quercus spp.). Females are relatively large (4–5 mm), round, and mottled brown, while males are tiny (1 mm), white, and oval. The genus includes economically significant pests that cause branch dieback, reduced growth, and occasional tree mortality. At least two species are well-documented: A. kingii in the southeastern and eastern United States, and A. galliformis in the eastern United States and Colorado.
Aphididae
Aphids
Aphididae is a very large family of sap-sucking insects in the order Hemiptera, containing several thousand described species. Members are soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects commonly known as aphids. The family includes the majority of plant virus vectors among insects, with approximately 200 known vector species. Many species are significant agricultural pests, causing direct damage through feeding and indirect damage through virus transmission.
Aphis craccivora
cowpea aphid, groundnut aphid, black legume aphid
Aphis craccivora is a small, dark-colored aphid of probable Palearctic origin that has become a cosmopolitan agricultural pest. It is polyphagous but shows strong preference for leguminous plants, particularly cowpea, groundnut, and alfalfa. The species reproduces primarily through parthenogenesis, with winged forms developing for dispersal. It is a significant pest due to direct feeding damage, honeydew production that promotes sooty mold growth, and its role as a vector for multiple plant viruses.
Ceroplastes rubens
red wax scale, pink wax scale, ruby wax scale
Ceroplastes rubens is a soft scale insect in the family Coccidae, commonly known as the red wax scale or pink wax scale. Native to Africa, it has become widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions including Australia, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. The species is highly polyphagous, feeding on sap from over 193 plant genera in 84 families, with significant economic impact on citrus, mango, avocado, and ornamental plants. Adult females are covered in a distinctive hard, pink to pale red wax covering approximately 3-4 mm in diameter. Reproduction is primarily parthenogenetic, with 1-2 generations per year depending on climate.
Ceroplastes rusci
Fig Wax Scale
Ceroplastes rusci, commonly known as the fig wax scale, is a soft scale insect (family Coccidae) native to the Mediterranean region. First discovered in Florida in 1994-1995, it has since spread to numerous countries across six continents and is recognized as a significant agricultural and forestry pest. The species feeds on more than 94 genera from 52 plant families, with notable impacts on figs, citrus, grapes, and ornamental plants. Climate change modeling predicts expanding suitable habitat ranges through 2100, increasing its invasive potential in temperate regions.
Cinara costata
Mealy Spruce Aphid
Cinara costata is a large aphid species in the family Aphididae, commonly known as the Mealy Spruce Aphid. It feeds on conifers, particularly spruce (Picea spp.), and is native to Europe where it has been documented in Great Britain, Denmark, Belgium, and France. Like other Cinara species, it produces honeydew that attracts ants and wasps. The species was first described by Zetterstedt in 1828 from specimens collected in Scandinavia.
Cinara curvipes
Bow-legged Fir Aphid
Cinara curvipes is a large, black bark aphid native to North America that has become invasive in Central Europe since 2000. Adults measure 4.5–5.3 mm. The species exhibits remarkable life cycle flexibility, with populations capable of both holocyclic (sexual) and anholocyclic (parthenogenetic) reproduction. In its invaded range, it can form exceptionally large colonies of thousands of individuals by May—a phenomenon not observed in native European Cinara species. The aphid secretes copious honeydew throughout most of the year, supporting diverse insect communities.
Cinara hottesi
Blue-black Spruce Aphid
Cinara hottesi is a species of conifer-feeding aphid in the family Aphididae, commonly known as the Blue-black Spruce Aphid. It belongs to the genus Cinara, which comprises large aphids specialized on conifers. The species is documented as a pest of spruce trees (Picea spp.) and has been recorded from North America.
Cinara laricifex
Black Larch Aphid
Cinara laricifex, commonly known as the Black Larch Aphid, is a conifer-feeding aphid in the family Aphididae. This species specializes on larch (Larix) as its host plant. Like other Cinara aphids, it possesses piercing-sucking mouthparts adapted to tap into the phloem of its host tree. The species is part of a genus that includes significant pests of Christmas tree production and forestry.
Cinara obscura
Dark Spruce Stem Aphid
Cinara obscura is a species of large aphid in the family Aphididae, commonly known as the Dark Spruce Stem Aphid. It is a conifer-feeding aphid that infests spruce trees (Picea species). Like other members of the genus Cinara, it possesses a long piercing-sucking beak adapted for tapping into phloem tissues. The species overwinters as eggs on host needles. It produces honeydew, which attracts ants and wasps and supports sooty mold growth.
Cinara pinea
Large Pine Aphid
Cinara pinea, the Large Pine Aphid, is a specialized phloem-feeding insect that colonizes Pinus species, particularly Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). It exhibits distinctive seasonal population dynamics, with spring peaks driven by host plant amino acid availability, followed by summer declines during drought conditions and partial autumn recoveries after rainfall. The species overwinters as eggs laid on current-year needles, with approximately 50% egg mortality between oviposition and hatching. Winged morphs (alatae) are produced only during June and early July, contingent on both crowding and active host shoot growth.
Coccoidea
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small sap-sucking hemipterans comprising the superfamily Coccoidea, with approximately 8,000 described species across about 49 families. They exhibit extraordinary morphological diversity, ranging from minute forms beneath waxy covers to conspicuous species with elaborate wax secretions. Many are economically significant agricultural and horticultural pests, while others serve as sources of valuable products such as carmine dye and shellac. The group has been extensively studied for biological control, with numerous parasitoid wasp species developed as management agents.
Coccus hesperidum
brown soft scale
Coccus hesperidum, commonly known as the brown soft scale, is a polyphagous soft scale insect with a cosmopolitan distribution. It is a significant agricultural pest of citrus and greenhouse crops, feeding on plant phloem sap and excreting honeydew that promotes sooty mold growth. The species reproduces primarily through parthenogenesis, with females producing live young. It serves as host to numerous parasitoid wasps, which are important biological control agents.
Ctenarytaina
eucalyptus psyllids, blue gum psyllids
Ctenarytaina is a genus of jumping plant lice (psyllids) in the family Aphalaridae, native to Australia and associated primarily with Myrtaceae. The genus includes economically significant pest species that have been introduced to multiple continents, particularly Ctenarytaina eucalypti, which threatens eucalyptus forestry and ornamental foliage industries. Several species have established adventive populations outside their native ranges, with documented impacts in Ireland, Chile, Colombia, and other regions. The genus exhibits strong host plant associations, with most species being monophagous or narrowly oligophagous on Eucalyptus, Syzygium, and other Myrtaceae.
Dialeurodes citri
Citrus Whitefly
Dialeurodes citri, the citrus whitefly, is a polyphagous pest native to Southeast Asia that has become established in citrus-growing regions worldwide. Adults and immature stages feed on phloem sap, secreting honeydew that promotes sooty mold growth. The species completes 2–3 generations annually in most regions, with development arrested in the fourth instar during cooler months. It is distinguished from the similar Parabemisia myricae by its larger size, preference for fully developed leaves, and slower life cycle.
Drepanosiphum platanoidis
sycamore aphid, maple aphid
Drepanosiphum platanoidis is a small aphid species specialized on maple and sycamore trees (Acer species). It is one of the most abundant aphids on sycamore in Europe and has been introduced to other regions including New Zealand. The species is notable for its distinctive winged morphs and its role in temperate forest ecosystems. It reproduces parthenogenetically through most of the year, with sexual forms appearing in autumn.
Eriococcus
felt scales, bark scales
Eriococcus is a genus of felt scales (bark scales) in the family Eriococcidae, order Hemiptera. These insects are characterized by producing white, felt-like waxy coverings over their bodies. Some species, such as Eriococcus lagerstroemiae (crapemyrtle bark scale), are significant invasive pests of ornamental plants, while others like E. spurius damage American elm trees. The taxonomy of Eriococcidae remains debated, with some authorities placing these species in Acanthococcidae.
Eucallipterus tiliae
Linden aphid, Lime-tree aphid, Lime Leaf Aphid
Eucallipterus tiliae is a specialist aphid species feeding exclusively on Tilia (lime/linden) trees. Adults are readily identified by a black stripe along the body and cloudy-black wing edges. The species exhibits pronounced seasonal polyphenism in nymphal pigmentation, with first-generation nymphs always unpigmented and later generations developing black dorsal bands in response to crowding and leaf maturity. Flight behavior is density-dependent, with both direct crowding and plant-mediated cues stimulating dispersal. Native to Eurasia, it has established worldwide wherever host Tilia species occur.
Euceraphis punctipennis
downy birch aphid, European birch aphid
Euceraphis punctipennis is a small green aphid species that feeds exclusively on downy birch (Betula pubescens). Adults are pale green with bluish wax particles, membranous wings, and long legs. The species reproduces parthenogenetically during spring and summer, with all adults being female. Population dynamics correlate with seasonal changes in host tree sap nutritional quality.
Flatinae
Flatinae is a subfamily of planthoppers within the family Flatidae, erected by Maximilian Spinola in 1839. Adults are distinguished by bodies that are flattened laterally and tegmina held in a tent-like posture, unlike the related Flatoidinae. The subfamily is cosmopolitan in tropical and subtropical regions, with records from all continents except Antarctica.
Fulgoridae
lanternflies, lanthorn flies
Fulgoridae is a large family of planthoppers within the order Hemiptera, containing over 125 genera worldwide with exceptional diversity in tropical regions. Members range from moderate to large size and often exhibit brilliant, varied coloration that superficially resembles Lepidoptera. The family is commonly known as "lanternflies," a name derived from the historical misconception that the elongated head processes of some species could produce light. These insects possess piercing-sucking mouthparts adapted for feeding on plant phloem sap.
Icerya purchasi
cottony cushion scale, fluted scale, cochinilla australiana
Icerya purchasi is a scale insect native to Australia that has become a globally distributed pest of citrus and ornamental plants. The species is notable for its distinctive reproductive system: most individuals are hermaphrodites capable of self-fertilization, with rare males enabling occasional outbreeding. Adult females are sessile and produce large white fluted egg sacs that can exceed twice the body length. The species achieved historical significance as the target of one of the first successful biological control programs, using the vedalia beetle (Novius cardinalis) in California in 1888–1889.
Illinoia
Illinoia is a genus of aphids (Aphididae: Aphidinae: Macrosiphini) established by Wilson in 1910. The genus contains multiple economically and ecologically significant species, including the tuliptree aphid (I. liriodendri), a notable pest of ornamental Liriodendron tulipifera, and the blueberry aphid (I. pepperi). Species in this genus are phloem-feeding insects associated with specific host plants, with some having become invasive outside their native ranges.
Illinoia liriodendri
tuliptree aphid, tulip tree aphid
Illinoia liriodendri is a sap-feeding aphid native to eastern North America that specializes on tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera). It has become an invasive pest in Europe, where it was first recorded in the early 2000s and has since spread to multiple countries. The species exhibits a monoecic-holocyclic life cycle, with peak populations occurring in late spring. It is considered the most significant insect pest of tuliptree in urban landscapes, capable of reaching high densities that produce substantial honeydew and impact young trees.
Lachninae
Giant Aphids
Lachninae is a subfamily of aphids (Aphididae) notable for containing some of the largest-bodied aphid species, commonly referred to as 'giant aphids.' Members are distinguished by greatly reduced or vestigial cornicles compared to other aphids. The subfamily exhibits a unique dual symbiotic system involving Buchnera and co-obligate secondary endosymbionts, primarily Serratia symbiotica, which compensates for riboflavin biosynthetic deficiencies in the primary symbiont. This group has been historically treated as a separate family (Lachnidae) by some authors. The subfamily includes economically significant species associated with coniferous and broadleaf trees.
Lecanodiaspididae
false pit scales, lecanodiaspidids
Lecanodiaspididae is a family of scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccoidea) commonly known as false pit scales. Members are found worldwide but are most diverse in the Far East. The family comprises approximately 12 described genera including Lecanodiaspis, Anomalococcus, and Pterococcus. These insects are phloem-feeders that develop waxy, protective coverings over their bodies.
Lycorma delicatula
Spotted Lanternfly
Lycorma delicatula, commonly known as the spotted lanternfly, is a planthopper native to China and Southeast Asia that has become a globally significant invasive pest. First detected in the United States in Berks County, Pennsylvania in 2014, it has since spread to over 20 states and the District of Columbia, primarily through human-assisted transport of egg masses. The species feeds on phloem sap from more than 100 plant species, with a strong preference for Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), and causes severe economic damage to vineyards, orchards, and hardwood industries through direct feeding and secondary effects of honeydew secretion.
Macrosiphini
Macrosiphini is a large tribe of aphids within the subfamily Aphidinae, comprising over 200 genera and numerous species distributed worldwide. Members exhibit diverse life cycles, including both monoecious species that remain on herbaceous plants year-round and heteroecious species that alternate between woody primary hosts and herbaceous secondary hosts. The tribe includes many economically significant agricultural pests, such as Myzus persicae (green peach aphid) and Macrosiphum species. Host plant specificity varies considerably, with some species restricted to single host species and others feeding across multiple plant families.
Melanaphis sacchari
Sugarcane Aphid, Sugarcane Aphid Complex
Melanaphis sacchari, commonly known as the sugarcane aphid, is a phloem-feeding aphid native to the Old World that has become a major agricultural pest of sorghum and sugarcane. First recorded feeding on sorghum in Texas in 2013, it rapidly spread across the southern United States, causing significant yield losses. The species reproduces primarily through parthenogenesis, with all individuals being female and giving birth to live young. Populations can double every 4 to 8 days under favorable conditions, making monitoring and timely intervention critical for management.
Metcalfa pruinosa
Citrus Flatid Planthopper
Metcalfa pruinosa is a polyphagous planthopper native to North America that has become a significant invasive pest across Europe, Asia, and other regions. Adults measure 5.5–8 mm in length and are covered in a distinctive bluish-white waxy coating. The species produces one generation per year, with eggs overwintering in bark crevices. It feeds gregariously on plant sap, excreting honeydew that promotes sooty mold growth and causes direct damage to crops and ornamentals. First described by Thomas Say in 1830, it has spread to over 20 countries and is known to attack more than 300 plant species.
Monellia
Blackmargined aphid, Yellow pecan aphid
Monellia is a genus of aphids in the family Aphididae, native to North America. The genus includes notable pecan pest species, particularly Monellia caryella (blackmargined aphid) and Monellia costalis (yellow pecan aphid). These aphids feed on phloem sap from pecan and hickory trees, causing direct damage through sap removal and indirect damage via honeydew production that supports sooty mold growth. The genus is subject to significant biological control pressure from diverse natural enemy communities including lacewings, lady beetles, parasitoid wasps, and entomopathogenic fungi.
Monelliopsis
yellow pecan aphid
Monelliopsis is a genus of aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in the subfamily Calaphidinae, established by Richards in 1965. The genus contains species that are specialized feeders on pecan (Carya illinoinensis), with Monelliopsis pecanis being the most economically significant species. These aphids are known as 'yellow pecan aphids' and are important pests of commercial pecan production in North America. They have piercing-sucking mouthparts and produce honeydew, which supports sooty mold growth. The genus is distinguished from the related Monellia by morphological and behavioral characteristics.
Monelliopsis pecanis
Yellow Pecan Aphid
Monelliopsis pecanis, commonly known as the yellow pecan aphid, is a sap-feeding insect in the family Aphididae that specializes on pecan (Carya illinoinensis). It is one of two primary 'yellow' or 'honeydew' aphid species affecting pecan production, distinguished from the blackmargined aphid (Monellia caryella) by its roof-like wing posture and lack of a black marginal stripe on the wings. Outbreaks typically occur later in the growing season than those of M. caryella and can cause significant defoliation, reduced nut yield, and quality degradation. The species reproduces parthenogenetically during spring and summer, with sexual forms appearing in autumn to produce overwintering eggs.
Ormenaria rufifascia
Palm Flatid Planthopper
Ormenaria rufifascia is a flatid planthopper commonly found on palms in Florida and parts of the Caribbean. Adults and nymphs are visually conspicuous. Dense populations produce honeydew, which can lead to extensive sooty mold growth on host plants, causing aesthetic damage even though the insect is usually not a serious pest.
Paraleyrodes
nesting whiteflies, Bondar's nesting whitefly (for P. bondari), fig whitefly (for P. minei)
Paraleyrodes is a genus of whiteflies in the subfamily Aleurodicinae, commonly known as nesting whiteflies due to the woolly wax nests constructed by females around egg masses. The genus includes economically significant invasive species such as P. bondari (Bondar's nesting whitefly) and P. minei, which are pests of coconut, citrus, fig, avocado, and ornamental plants. Species in this genus are characterized by distinctive waxy secretions, sessile nymphal stages, and polyphagous feeding habits on woody plants.
whiteflyinvasive-pestagricultural-pestornamental-pestAleurodicinaecoconut-pestcitrus-pestfig-pestavocado-pestwoolly-wax-nestspolyphagousphloem-feederhoneydew-producersooty-moldFlorida-pestCalifornia-pestIndia-pestBangladesh-pestCroatia-pestGreece-pestnatural-enemiesbiological-controlintegrated-pest-managementParthenolecanium quercifex
oak lecanium scale
Parthenolecanium quercifex, commonly known as the oak lecanium scale, is a native soft scale insect in the family Coccidae. Adult females are hemispherical, 4–7 mm long, and light to dark brown or gray with lateral humps. The species is prevalent in the eastern United States, primarily infesting oak trees but occasionally found on hickory and birch. It has one annual generation, with eggs laid in late May to June and crawlers hatching in June to early July. Heavy infestations can cause stunted foliage, chlorosis, twig death, and dieback, while moderate populations may support beneficial natural enemies.
Periphyllus negundinis
Box Elder Aphid
A North American aphid species specialized on box elder trees. Forms dense colonies on leaves and stems, often becoming conspicuous due to honeydew production and associated sooty mold. The species was first described in 1878 and remains a common, well-documented member of the aphid genus Periphyllus.
Phyllaphis fagi
Woolly Beech Aphid
Phyllaphis fagi, the woolly beech aphid, is a small sap-sucking insect that lives exclusively on beech trees (Fagus species). It produces dense white to bluish-white wax threads that give colonies a distinctive woolly appearance. The species has a complex life cycle involving both winged and wingless forms, with up to ten generations per year in favorable conditions. Native to Europe, it has been introduced to several other regions including North America, Australia, and New Zealand, where it can become a significant pest in beech forests and nurseries.
Pineus strobi
Pine Bark Adelgid, White Pine Bark Aphid
Pineus strobi is a small, sap-sucking insect in the family Adelgidae, commonly known as the pine bark adelgid or white pine bark aphid. It is a specialist feeder on white pine (Pinus strobus) and related pine species, forming dense colonies on bark and branches. The species has been introduced to regions outside its native range, including central European Russia and the Fergana Valley, where it is considered invasive. Like other adelgids, it possesses complex associations with bacterial endosymbionts that aid in nutritional processing.
Protopulvinaria pyriformis
Pyriform Scale
Protopulvinaria pyriformis, commonly known as the pyriform scale, is a soft scale insect in the family Coccidae. It is a significant agricultural pest primarily associated with avocado, though it has been recorded on citrus and other hosts. The species exhibits parthenogenetic reproduction in most populations and possesses the unusual ability for a soft scale to move around as an adult female. It is known from multiple continents including Australia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Pulvinaria innumerabilis
Cottony Maple Scale
A soft scale insect (family Coccidae) commonly known as the cottony maple scale. Adult females are small, flattened, and brown, approximately 3 mm in length. Mature females produce conspicuous white, cottony ovisacs containing up to 1,500 eggs. The species is frequently found on maple trees, particularly silver maple (Acer saccharinum), but has been recorded on numerous other woody plants. Heavy infestations can cause aesthetic damage and minor physiological stress to host plants, though established trees typically tolerate infestations well.
Purshivora media
Purshivora media is a species of aphid in the family Aphididae. It is a specialist feeder associated with plants in the genus Purshia, commonly known as bitterbrush or cliffrose. The species is native to western North America where its host plants occur in arid and semi-arid shrubland habitats. Like other aphids, it reproduces parthenogenetically during favorable conditions.
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soft scales, black scales
Saissetia is a genus of soft scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccidae) containing at least four described species. The genus includes economically important pests, notably Saissetia oleae (black scale) and Saissetia coffeae (hemispherical scale), which attack citrus, olive, coffee, and numerous ornamental plants. Saissetia species are phloem-feeding insects that produce honeydew, facilitating ant associations and sooty mold growth. Several species have been introduced globally through trade in infested nursery plants.
Saissetia coffeae
hemispherical scale, helmet scale, coffee brown scale
Saissetia coffeae is a polyphagous soft scale insect (Coccidae) with a cosmopolitan tropical and subtropical distribution. Adults are sessile, hemispherical, and helmet-shaped, ranging 2–4.5 mm in diameter depending on host plant. The species reproduces parthenogenetically; all individuals are female. It is a significant agricultural pest of coffee, citrus, avocado, fig, guava, and numerous ornamental plants, causing damage through phloem sap feeding and honeydew secretion that promotes sooty mold growth. Multiple parasitoid wasps and predatory insects are associated with natural population regulation.
Sarucallis kahawaluokalani
Crapemyrtle Aphid
Sarucallis kahawaluokalani, the crapemyrtle aphid, is a specialist phloem-feeding pest native to Southeast Asia and first described from Hawaii in 1907. It has spread globally through the ornamental plant trade, closely tracking the distribution of its host plant Lagerstroemia spp. The species exhibits complex life cycle alternation between asexual summer generations and sexual autumn generations producing overwintering eggs. Heavy infestations cause aesthetic and physiological damage through honeydew production and associated sooty mold growth.
Toumeyella pini
Striped Pine Scale
Toumeyella pini, commonly known as the Striped Pine Scale, is a soft scale insect native to North America. It is a significant pest of pine trees, particularly two- and three-needle pine species. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism in both morphology and feeding location: females are larger, highly convex, and develop on terminal twigs, while males are smaller, more elongate, and develop on needles. The species secretes copious honeydew, which attracts ants, wasps, bees, and flies, and can lead to sooty mold growth that inhibits photosynthesis. In southern Georgia, it completes three generations per year, with crawler activity peaking in May, mid-July to early August, and late October to early November.
Trialeurodes vaporariorum
Greenhouse Whitefly, Glasshouse Whitefly
Trialeurodes vaporariorum is a globally distributed pest of protected horticulture, frequently found in greenhouses and polytunnels. Adults are 1–2 mm with yellowish bodies and four wax-coated wings held parallel to the leaf surface. The species has a broad host range exceeding 300 plant species across multiple crop families. It causes economic damage through direct phloem feeding, honeydew excretion, and associated sooty mold growth. Population dynamics show seasonal peaks in late autumn, with densities reaching 5–7 adults plus nymphs per leaf in greenhouse broccoli systems.
Tuberolachnus
giant willow aphid, giant bark aphid
Tuberolachnus is a genus of aphids in the family Aphididae, established by Mordvilko in 1909. The genus contains three described species, with Tuberolachnus salignus (the giant willow aphid) being the most well-known and widely studied. Members of this genus are among the largest aphids in the world, with body lengths reaching up to 5.8 mm. They are notable for their obligate parthenogenetic reproduction, extremely low genetic diversity, and status as invasive pests in multiple regions including New Zealand, India, and Patagonia.
Tuberolachnus salignus
Giant Willow Aphid
Tuberolachnus salignus, the giant willow aphid, is one of the largest aphid species in the world, reaching up to 5.8 mm in body length. It is an obligate parthenogenetic species, reproducing without males and producing genetically identical female offspring. Native to Asia, it has become cosmopolitan, spreading to all continents except Antarctica. The species feeds primarily on willow phloem sap and is considered an invasive pest in regions including New Zealand, where it impacts willow-based industries and apiculture through copious honeydew production.