Description of Plum Scale Immatures Stages (Sphaerolecanium prunastri (Boyer de Fonscolombe) (Hemiptera: Coccidae)

Abstract

Species identification of scale insects is usually made during the adult female period. However, early nymphal stages are targeted in the control of these pests. Plum Lecanium, Sphaerolecanium prunastri (Boyer de Fonscolombe) (Hemiptera: Coccidae) is an economically important pest of stone fruits, almonds, and ornamental Prunus species in Turkey as well as worldwide. The first–instar, second–instar male and female, and third–instar female of plum scale are redescribed and illustrated. We present diameters, position, distribution, and number of pors (simple, bilocular, trilocular pores, micro–ducts, tubular ducts, spiracular disc–pores), and marginal setae in all immature stages of Plum Lecanium that have not been given descriptions from different authors previously. We recorded the presence of heavy rimmed pores in second–instar males and females. An identification key is provided for all instars and adult females.

Keywords

• immature stages
• plum scale
• prunus sp.
• third–instar female