Scale Insects

Scientific name: Order: Hemiptera

Description

Scale insects range in form a from flat to raised, and usually circle to oval shaped. They can vary in size and colour, from 3-10mm in diameter, and ranging from palish yellow, green, white, brown to black. Their bodies can be shiny or have a waxy dull appearance. They are usually seen clustered along leaf veins, leaf stalks, stems and fruit causing damage to plants. They suck sap and exude large amounts of honeydew, making ideal conditions for sooty mould. They tend to be in great numbers during warm, dry conditions. They attack a wide range of plants including vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals, ferns and even grass species.