Pine Needle Scale
From Bugwoodwiki
Hagle, S.K; S. Tunnock; K.E. Gibson; and C.J. Gilligan. 1987. Field Guide to Diseases and Insect Pests of Idaho and Montana Forests. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. State and Private Forestry, Northern Region. Missoula, Montana. Reprint 1990. Publication Number R1-89-54.
|
Contents |
Hosts
Lodgepole and ponderosa pine, occasionally spruce and Douglas-fir. May be common on ornamental pines.
Distribution
in Idaho and Montana where pines are native or planted.
Damage
Nymphs suck fluid from needles turning them yellow brown. Ornamentals become unattractive when covered with white, waxy adults and their secretions. Heavy populations can kill trees after a few years.
Identification
Scales may be seen on needles any time of the year. The scales are white, one-eighth inch long, elongate oval, and are yellow at the apex (fig. 125). Rusty brown eggs are under the scales in the winter. Scale infestations are often associated with excessive road dust or other factors affecting tree vigor.
Similar damages
Damage may be similar to that caused by other agents which cause needle discoloration such as black pineleaf scale, pine needle casts, winter desiccation, drought, and aphids. If scales are present, diagnosis is assured.
References
- Anonymous. 1982. For. Insect & disease identification and management. USDA For. Serv., Northern Region; Idaho Dept. of Lands, Insect and Disease Control; Montana Dept. of State Lands, Division of Forestry. 192 p.
- Furniss, R. L., and V. M. Carolin. 1977. Western For. Insects. USDA Forest Serv., Misc. pub. 1339, 654 p., illus.
