Submitted to: Florida Entomologist
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: December 8, 2006
Publication Date: March 1, 2006
Citation: Howard, F.W., Hodges, G.S., Gates, M.W. 2006. First report of Conchaspis cordiae (Hemiptera: Conchaspididae) in Florida and the United States. Florida Entomologist. 89:102-104.
Interpretive Summary: Invasive scale insects cause losses up to 500 million dollars annually to crops and ornamental plantings in the United States. Scale insects can be both inconspicuous, thus difficult to detect and control, and can attack more than one species of host plant, increasing the potential for economic loss. We report on the detection of a new invasive scale in Florida that has the potential to cause significant economic losses to mahogany trees, both ornamental and commercial. The presence of a parasitic wasp attacking this scale is also reported. This information will be used by scientists, biocontrol workers and port inspectors to enhance awareness and ability to identify this invasive scale.
Technical Abstract:
The adventive species, Conchaspis cordiaeMamet (Hemiptera: Conchaspidae) is newly reported in Florida. Since initial discovery in 2003, this scale has spread to at least 16 locations in southern Florida where it attacks West Indies mahogany, Honduras mahogany, African mahogany, and mahogany hybrids. West Indies mahogany is a southern Florida native and ornamental, while Honduras mahogany is an important source of timber. Thus, this scale insect has potential to cause economic damage to mahogany nursery stock and mahogany in silviculture
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