Incidence of wax scale, genus Ceroplastes sp. nr. pseudoceriferus (Hemiptera: Coccidae) on guava (Psidium guajava L.)

Abstract

Incidence of wax scale Ceroplastes sp. nr. pseudoceriferus on guava (Psidium guajava L.) was observed to be increasing in some parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. This scale insect was found damaging the guava leaves and tender shoots. The honeydew exudation causes sooty mold affecting photosynthesis and fruits become unfit for marketing. The mean number (+ SE) of scales per leaf and shoot recorded was 5.4±1.32 (Range: 1-16) and 41.24 14.54 (Range: 10-89) respectively. Even it is being reported on other crops like pomegranate. The thick covering of wax substance on the insect body protects them from pesticide-based management practices.