Soft wax scale - Ceroplastes destructor
Effective: August 18, 2010 - December 31, 2016
Taxonomic Position: Hemiptera : Coccidae
Pest Type: Insects
Pest Code (NAPIS): IRAHQKA
This pest is a member of the following surveys: Citrus
These Approved Methods are appropriate for: 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011
Pest Information
CAPS Pest Datasheet: https://download.ceris.purdue.edu/file/3073
Pest Tracker: https://pesttracker.org/pest/IRAHQKA
Human and Animal Pathogens Transmitted:
Not known to transmit any human or animal pathogens.
Pest Pathogens and Organisms Vectored:
Honeydew (a liquid secretion from C. destructor) supports the growth of black sooty mold on host plants.
Survey
Approved Method(s)
| Method | Detail | NAPIS Survey Method |
|---|---|---|
| Visual | See the CPHST pest datasheet for detailed survey instructions. | 3031 - General Visual Observation |
Survey Recommendations
The following are recommendations for executing the survey using the approved methods for pest surveillance. The recommendations are developed through literature review and consultation with subject matter experts.
Key Diagnostic or Identification
Approved Method(s)
ID/Diagnostic:
Morphological: Adult females are very distinct from all U.S. species. Specimens should be slide mounted for confirmation. Immatures are difficult to differentiate from similar-looking species.
Mistaken Identities:
Present in the U.S.: Ceroplastes cirripediformis, C. dugesii, C. floridensis, and C. sinensis. Early instars can be difficult to distinguish from one another.
Not present in the U.S.: C. ceriferus and C. sinensis.
Not present in the U.S.: C. ceriferus and C. sinensis.
References
If you are unable to find a reference, contact STCAPS@usda.gov. See the CAPS Pest Datasheet for all references.