Common names:
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Cottony cushion scale (English). No local names were recorded |
Pest status:
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In northern Namibia, the Australian bug is mainly found on ornamental
trees and bushes. It is also reported to be a pest on citrus and Guava
in other countries. The bug is widespread and easily detected during the
winter season (mid-year). Although it seldom causes much damage to the
plants it is one of the most reported pests because it looks so dramatic
and people care for their ornamentals.
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Description:
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The backside of female bugs are covered with a large white egg-sac,
which makes the scale look much larger than it really is, up to 6-8 mm
long. The white sac is striped with dark or red lines on the front of the
body. The Australian bug is usually found clustering together on small
twigs or along the midrib of leaves.
The bug requires a long period without disturbance to build up an attack.
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Control:
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The pest is seldom of much economic importance. It is difficult to
control with chemicals as the pest is protected by a waxy layer. Chemicals
may therefore kill the beneficial insects instead.
Try to use simpler means of pest control such as hosing the plant over
with water or washing the stems and branches with a mild soap water solution
on a brush.
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Other notes:
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None |
