First report of occurrence of scale, Perisopneumon ferox Newstead (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Monophlebidae) on dragon fruit from Gujarat, India

Abstract

A field study was conducted to document the insect pests of dragon fruit in South Gujarat during March to June, 2025. The sporadic infestation of scale, Perisopneumon ferox Newstead (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Monophlebidae) was observed on both White flesh dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus) and Red dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrizus). The female adults (number ranging from 1 to 5) infest dragon fruit plant mainly at internode, which is a segment between two cladodes. This is the first time record of scale insect on dragon fruit. Since an economic loss has not yet been observed from this new pest incidence, a comprehensive management strategy should focus on research, monitoring, and preparedness.