PEST
 
   NAME
     Soft Brown Scale
     Coccus hesperidium
 
   ORDER
     Hemiptera
 
   FAMILY
     Coccidae

Description of the Pest
The mature female is soft, yellow-brown or dark brown scale, oval-shaped and 3-5mm long. The scale produces honeydew, which attracts ants.

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
Known worldwide, this scale is found throughout Australia but primarily seen in warm, dry areas of eastern Australia.

		  Lophostemon confertus

Life Cycle
This insect has a Hemimetabolous life cycle, ie. When the immature nymphs resemble the adults.
Females produce 1-2 eggs each day; several generations occur annually.

Period of Activity
Most activity occurs during the warmer months.

Damage Caused
Damage is caused by the sap-sucking of nymphs and adults, especially on plant shoots and leaf mid-ribs and stalks. Sooty mould is caused by honeydew production. Leaves and stems have an unattractive appearance as a result of a heavy coverage of sooty mould.

  Attached to midrib 	  Sooty Mould

Susceptible Plants
There are many plants that are susceptible to this pest, including Citrus, Ficus, Camellia species, Nerium oleander, Lophostemon confertus and many fern or orchid species.

Araucaria heterophylla, Aloe, Arctostaphylos, Clerodendrum and Senna species are also susceptible to infestation.

Cultural Control
Rub off by hand, if numbers are small.

Biological Control
Ladybeetle larvae and adults, parasitic wasps and predatory caterpillars normally control the scale.

  Ladybeetle larvae

Chemical Control
Spray with white oil in Summer.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.