Tag Archives: Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Cycad Poliaspis Scale | Poliaspis media Maskell

January 24, 2018 Jason Leathers

California Pest Rating for

Cycad Poliaspis Scale | Poliaspis media Maskell

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: B

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Poliaspis media has recently been found in the environment of Orange and San Diego counties and is presently assigned a temporary rating of “Q”. A pest rating proposal is required to determine a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Poliaspis media is a polyphagous armored scale insect that feeds on the undersides of leaves of host plants¹. The scale insect’s feeding induces galls on some host plants¹. Some of the known hosts are: Achariaceae: Melicytus alpinus¹; Aizoaceae: Disphyma australe¹; Araliaceae: Raukaua anomalus¹; Asteliaceae: Astelia fragrans¹; Asteraceae: Craspedia sp.¹, Ozothamnus sp.¹, Sonchus sp.¹; Brassicaceae: Streptanthus sp.¹; Cycadaceae: Cycas circinalis¹, Cycas revoluta¹; Ericaceae: Acrothamnus colensoi¹, Cyathodes sp.¹, Dracophyllum latifolium¹, Dracophyllum lessonianum¹, Dracophyllum oliveri¹, Dracophyllum recurvum¹, Dracophyllum sp.¹, Dracophyllum traversii¹, Leptecophylla juniperina¹, Leucopogon fraseri¹, Leucopogon sp.¹, Pentachondra pumila¹; Gaultheria depressa¹, Gaultheria rupestris¹, Gaultheria sp.¹; Myrtaceae: Leptospermum scoparium¹; Orchidaceae: Orchidaceae sp.¹; Plantaginaceae: Veronica decumbens¹, Veronica elliptica¹, Veronica hulkeana¹, Veronica macrantha¹, Veronica pentasepala¹, Veronica subalpina¹, Veronica venustula¹; Podocarpaceae: Lepidothamnus laxifolius¹; Primulaceae: Myrsine australis¹, Myrsine divaricata¹, Myrsine salicina¹, Samolus repens¹; Ranunculaceae: Clematis afoliata¹; Restionaceae: Emposidisma minus¹; Rubiaceae: Coprosma arborea¹, Coprosma chathamica¹, Coprosma cheesemanii¹, Coprosma depressa¹, Coprosma propinqua¹, Coprosma pumila¹, Coprosma rhamnoides¹, Coprosma robusta¹, Coprosma rubra¹, Coprosma sp.¹, Coprosma spathulata¹, Coprosma tenuifolia¹, Coprosma virescens¹; Rutaceae: Leionema nudum¹; Santalaceae: Exocarpos bidwillii¹; Thymelaeaceae: Pimelea prostrata¹, Pimelea urvilleana¹; Zamiaceae: Dioon edule¹. Poliaspis media may be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Poliaspis media was described from specimens collected in New Zealand before 1880, but it may be native to Asia^1,2. It has been found in New Zealand, Fiji, India, Greece, the United Kingdom, and the United States¹. It was first found in Florida in 2007².

Official Control: Poliaspis media is listed as a harmful organism by Japan and the Republic of Korea³.

California Distribution: Poliaspis media was collected in the environment of California at a residence in Tustin (Orange County) in 1999 and at a residence in Villa Park (Orange County) in 2016 and again in 2017. It was found at a park in San Diego County in 2018.

California Interceptions: Since 1993, samples of Poliaspis media have been collected 22 times in inspections of nurseries in San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara counties. The scale insects were also intercepted once on a shipment of sago palms (Cycas revoluta) from Florida.

The risk Poliaspis media (cycad poliaspis scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Poliaspis media is established in nations with Mediterranean climates similar to much of California and it is expected to establish a widespread distribution here. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Poliaspis media is known to feed on a variety of plants in 21 families. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Scale insects have high reproductive rates and may disperse long distances when infested plants or plant parts are moved. They may also be spread by wind or by hitchhiking on plants, animals, or equipment. Poliaspis media receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: Poliaspis media is not expected to lower any crop yields. It may lower the value of nursery stock by disfiguring plants with its presence. It is listed as a harmful organism by several of California’s trading partners and could potentially disrupt markets for nursery stock and other fresh plant material. Poliaspis media receives a Medium (2) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

B, C

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: Poliaspis media is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It is not expected to affect threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats. It might trigger new treatment programs in the nursery industry and by residents who find infested plants unsightly. Cycads are high value, slow-growing ornamental plants that are popular in California and may be significantly impacted by this insect. Poliaspis media receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

D, E

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Poliaspis media (Cycad Poliaspis Scale): High (14)

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Poliaspis media is only known to be established in the environment of Orange County. It receives a Low (-1) in this category.

Evaluate the known distribution in California. Only official records identified by a taxonomic expert and supported by voucher specimens deposited in natural history collections should be considered. Pest incursions that have been eradicated, are under eradication, or have been delimited with no further detections should not be included.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (13)

Uncertainty:

Over the course of 20 years, Poliaspis media has been found multiple times in nurseries in California but it has only been intercepted coming into the state once. It has been found in the environment of Orange and San Diego Counties. There have been no recent formal surveys for this pest. It is possible that this scale insect is more widely established in the environment of Southern California and is infesting nurseries locally.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Poliaspis media has been established in the environment of Orange County for several years, was recently found in San Diego County, and is not under official control. It is expected to have significant impacts on the nursery industry and ornamental plantings as it expands its distribution in the state. A “B” rating is justified.

References:

¹ Miller, Dug, Yair Ben-Dov, Gary Gibson and Nate Hardy. ScaleNet. http://scalenet.info/catalogue/Poliaspis%20media/

² Hodges, Greg and W.N. Dixon. 2007. The Poliaspis Cycad Scale Poliaspis cycadis Comstock (Hemiptera: Diaspididae): A new exotic scale insect for Florida. http://www.freshfromflorida.com/content/download/68154/1612633/Pest_Alert_-_Poliaspis_cycadis,_The_Poliaspis_Cycad_Scale.pdf

³ USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 2800 Gateway Oaks, Sacramento CA 95833, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov

Comment Period:* CLOSED

1/24/18 – 3/10/18

*NOTE:

You must be registered and logged in to post a comment. If you have registered and have not received the registration confirmation, please contact us at plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.

Example Comment:
Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]

♦ Posted comments will not be able to be viewed immediately.

♦ Comments may not be posted if they:

Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;

Contains defamatory, false, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, discriminatory or illegal material;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting workplace violence, including threats.

♦ Comments may be edited prior to posting to ensure they are entirely germane.

♦ Posted comments shall be those which have been approved in content and posted to the website to be viewed, not just submitted.

Pest Rating: B

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Armored Scale | Melanaspis leivasi (Costa Lima)

December 12, 2017 Kyle Beucke

California Pest Rating for

Armored scale | Melanaspis leivasi (Costa Lima)

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: A

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Melanaspis leivasi was found on Florida stranger fig (Ficus aurea Nutt.) at a residence in West Palm Beach by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Resources and identified by USDA APHIS on 11/9/2017 (USDA/APHIS/PPQ, 2017). This is the first domestic record for this pest in the United States. In California, it currently has a “Q” rating. Due to its potential economic and environmental impacts, a permanent rating is proposed

History & Status:

Background: Melanaspis is a genus of armored scales that includes 64 described species, of which M. leivasi is the largest, adult females measuring up to 2.4 millimeters in length (Deitz and Davidson, 1986). Melanaspis leivasi has been associated with Anacardium excelsum (Anacardiaceae), Bursera sp. (Burseraceae), Ficus sp. (Moraceae), and Vitis sp. (Vitaceae) (Claps et al., 1999; Garcia Morales et al., 2016).

Worldwide Distribution: Melanaspis leivasi is reported from South America (Brazil and Colombia), Central America (Guatemala and Panama), and Mexico. This species is not known to occur in the continental United States (Garcia Morales et al., 2016).

Official Control: Melanaspis leivasi is not known to be under official control anywhere.

California Distribution: Melanaspis leivasi is not known to occur in California (Symbiota Collections of Arthropods Network).

California Interceptions: Melanaspis leivasi has been intercepted three times in California; all three interceptions were in San Diego on tropical apricot (Mammea americana) from Mexico.

The risk Melanaspis leivasi would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Of the four genera of plants that M. leivasi has been associated with, only Vitis is widely distributed in California. The family Anacardiaceae contains other genera in California that could possibly serve as host plants. Because of the apparent restriction to a tropical or subtropical climate, it appears unlikely that M. leivasi could become established in more than a limited portion of California. Therefore, Melanaspis leivasi receives a Medium (2) in this category.

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Melanaspis leivasi has been associated with four families of plants: Anacardiaceae, Burseraceae, Moraceae, and Vitaceae (Garcia Morales et al., 2016). Therefore, it receives a High (3) in this category.

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Natural dispersal in diaspidids is limited, because adult females do not fly. They can, however, be artificially dispersed via movement of infested plant material. Therefore, it receives a Medium (2) in this category.

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: There is little information available on the biology of Melanaspis leivasi. The genus Melanaspis includes several pest species. Some species are pests in their native range. One, M. deklei, is not known to be a pest in its native range, but became a pest of ornamental wax myrtle trees in South Carolina after it was introduced there (Chong et al., 2009). It is possible that M. leivasi could become an agricultural pest of grapes in California if it became established here; if so, this could lower crop yield, increase production costs, and negatively change normal cultural practices. Therefore, it receives a High (3) in this category.

Economic Impact: A, B, D

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

Economic Impact Score: 3

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: The genus Melanaspis has a demonstrated pest potential, as several species are economic pests. In addition, M. leivasi apparently feeds on at least four families of plants; some of these families include species native to California. Three members of the Anacardiaceae, Rhus ovata, R. ovatifolia, and Malosma laurina, are prominent or dominant members of shrub-dominated communities in southern California. If this pest were to attack these species and reduce their fitness, then it could cause modification of habitat types including coastal strand, southern sagebrush scrub, sumac scrub, and various types of chaparral. As these plant communities serve as habitat for the federally endangered Least Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus), then this pest could indirectly affect this endangered species. Therefore, it receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

Environmental Impact: A, C

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact.

Environmental Impact Score: 3

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

**Consequences of Introduction to California for Melanaspis leivasi: High (13)**

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Melanaspis leivasi is not known to be present in California. It receives a Not established (0) in this category.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (13)

Uncertainty:

There is significant uncertainty. Little information is available on the biology of M. leivasi. For example, the breadth of its feeding habits is apparently broad, but this is based on a small number of literature records. It is possible that it would feed on a far wider range of host plants. It is also possible that M. leivasi would not be capable of becoming established in California because it requires a tropical climate, although there are areas of subtropical climate in southern California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Melanaspis leivasi is a scale insect with apparently broad feeding habits. It is possible that it could become established in California. This species belongs to a genus with several economic pests, and it is not known to be present in California. However, if this species gets established in California, it could cause significant economic and environmental impacts. For these reasons, an “A” rating is justified.

References:

Chong, J.-H., Hodges, G.S., and M. Samuel-Foo. 2009. First record and management of the armored scale, Melanaspis deklei Dietz & Davidson (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), in South Carolina. Journal of Agricultural and Urban Entomology. 26(2): 63-75.

Claps, L.E., Wolff, V.R.S, and R.H. González. 1999. Catálogo de las especies de Diaspididae (Hemiptera: Coccoides) nativas de Argentina, Brasil y Chile. Insecta Mundi. 13(3-4): 239-256.

Deitz, L.L. and J.A. Davidson. 1986. Synopsis of the armored scale genus Melanaspis in North America (Homoptera: Diaspididae). North Carolina State University, Technical Bulletin No. 279. 92 pp.

García Morales, M., Denno, B.D., Miller, D.R., Miller, G.L., Ben-Dov, Y., and N.B. Hardy. 2016. ScaleNet: A literature-based model of scale insect biology and systematics. Database. doi: 10.1093/database/bav118. http://scalenet.info. Accessed 15 November 2017

http://scalenet.info/catalogue/Melanaspis%20leivasi/

Symbiota Collections of Arthropods Network. Accessed 15 November 2017.

http://scan1.acis.ufl.edu

USDA/APHIS/PPQ 2017. PestID record APEMD173124536001

Author:

Kyle Beucke, 1220 N Street, Room 221, Sacramento, CA, 95814, 916-403-6741, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Period:* CLOSED

12/12/17 – 1/26/18

*NOTE:

You must be registered and logged in to post a comment. If you have registered and have not received the registration confirmation, please contact us at plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.

Example Comment:
Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]

♦ Posted comments will not be able to be viewed immediately.

♦ Comments may not be posted if they:

Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;

Contains defamatory, false, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, discriminatory or illegal material;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting workplace violence, including threats.

♦ Comments may be edited prior to posting to ensure they are entirely germane.

♦ Posted comments shall be those which have been approved in content and posted to the website to be viewed, not just submitted.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Selenaspidus articulatus (Morgan): Rufous scale

December 21, 2016 Javaid Iqbal

California Pest Rating for

Selenaspidus articulatus (Morgan): Rufous scale

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: A

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Selenaspidus articulatus is frequently intercepted by CDFA. A pest rating proposal is required to support its permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Selenaspidus articulatus (Rufous scale), also called the West Indies scale, is considered as a serious pest of certain citrus producing areas of South America, West Indies and coastal regions of Peru².

Rufous scale is a highly polyphagous species that can feed on vegetative growth, flowers, fruits and post-harvest stages of its host plants. Species of Citrus are favored hosts of this pest, but it also feeds on members from the families Anacardiaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Palmae. Known hosts include Acalypha, Anacardium, Annona spp., Antidesma, Ardisia, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Arundinaria, Averrhoa spp., Barringtonia, Bauhinia, Bignonia, Brunfelsia, Calathea, Calea, Calophyllum, Camellia sinensis (tea), Carissa, Cassia, Celastrus, Ceratonia, Chrysalidocarpus, Chrysophyllum, Cladoxylon, Cocos nucifera, Codiaeum, Cordyline, Croton, Cycas,Cyperaceae, Decaspermum, Dictyosperma, Dovyalis, Dracaena, Elaeis,Eriobotrya, Eucalyptus, Eugenia, Excoecaria, Ficus, Fortunella,Furcraea, Garcinia, Gardenia, Gliricidia, Hedera, Hedychium, Hevea brasiliensis, Hibiscus, Howea, Hyphaene, Ixora, Jacquemontia, Jasminum, Lagerstroemia, Lantana, Ligustrum, Litchi chinensis, Lonchocarpus, Maclura, Magnolia, Malachra, Mammea, Mangifera indica, Olea europaea, Palmae, Pandanus, Passiflora edulis, Persea americana, Phaseolus, Phoenix dactylifera,Pilea, Plumeria, Rosa, Saccharum officinarum, Sambucus, Schinus, Spondias, Swietenia, Tamarindus, Tambourissa, Tecoma, Theobroma, Thespesia,Tricalysia, Vitis vinifera, Washingtonia and Xanthosoma sagittifolium².

Rufous scale damages both sides of the leaves, but mostly the upper surface exposed to the sun. The damage is caused by sap-depletion, and through injection of toxic saliva, which causes chlorosis and death of plant tissue in the area of penetration. Parasitism is the most successful technique to control this scale².

Worldwide Distribution: Rufous scale is distributed throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It spread through many of the citrus growing countries including Peru, Jamaica, Montserrat, Philippines, Panama, Nicaragua, Solomon Islands, Mozambique, Trinidad and Tobago, Mexico, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Taiwan, Togo, Uganda, United Kingdom, Mauritius, Tanzania, Comoros, Grenada, Martinique, Australia, Barbados, Brazil, Cameroon, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Kenya, Chad, Madagascar, Eritrea, French Guiana, and Fiji Island³.

In the United States it can be found in Florida and the Virgin Islands.

Official Control: Rufous scale has been listed as a harmful Organism by 11 nations including China, Japan, Paraguay, Guatemala, Venezuela, Chile, India, New Zealand, Vietnam, Republic of Korea and Republic of Bolivia⁵.

California Distribution: Rufous Scale has never found in the environment in California.

California Interceptions: Rufous scale has been intercepted multiple times by CDFA’s border stations and nursery regulatory inspections. Interceptions were typically on plants or plant material imported from South American countries.

The risk Selenaspidus articulatus (Rufous scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Hosts plants of Rufous scale are grown throughout California and this insect presents the possibility of spread and become established wherever the hosts are grown within the state. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California: Score: 3

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Rufous scale is a highly polyphagous species that has been recorded from hosts belonging to 60 genera in 31 plant families⁴. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score: 3

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Rufous scale females produce large number of eggs (71-124 each) and can be easily transported with the movement of infested plant material. It receives at High (3) in this category

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score: 3

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

3) Economic Impact: Rufous scale is mainly a pest of citrus but also has the potential to devastate California grape, avocado and olive industry. It is listed as a damaging pest by several nations so it has the potential to trigger a loss of markets. Furthermore, it may increase production costs in citrus and in nursery industries as growers may treat to ensure fruit or plant cleanliness It receives a High (3) in this category

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below.

Economic Impact: A, B, C

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

Economic Impact Score: 3

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: Rufous scale is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It could affect threatened and endangered species such as Wiggins’ croton

(Croton wigginsii) and small-leaved rose (Rosa minutifolia); it would not be expected to disrupt critical habitats. It is very likely to trigger new treatment programs in citrus, olive & avocado orchards and by residents who find infested plants unsightly. It may also significantly impact ornamental plantings. It receives a High (3) in this category

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

Environmental Impact: C, D, E

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Environmental Impact: Score: 3

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

**Consequences of Introduction to California for Selenaspidus articulatus (Rufous scale): High (15)**

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Rufous scale has never been found in the environment in California and receives a Not Established (0) in this category

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (15)

Uncertainty:

There are no surveys done recently for the detection. Since most of the host plants are grown throughout California, it could easily spread and get established in the state.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Rufous scale has never been found in California and might cause significant economic and environmental impacts if this pest were to get established in California. Currently, an “A” rating is justified.

References:

¹DISCOVERIES IN NATURAL HISTORY & EXPLORATION UCR website. Accessed on 11-15-16. http://www.faculty.ucr.edu/~legneref/biotact/ch-95.htm

²Davidson, J.A. and D.R. Miller, 1990. Ornamental plants. In: D. Rosen (ed.), armoured scale insects, their biology, natural enemies and control. Vol. 4B. Elsevier, Amsterdam, the Netherlands: 603-632 http://wbd.etibioinformatics.nl/bis/diaspididae.php?menuentry=soorten&id=175

³Biological Records Centre: Global Species : Accessed on 11-15-16 http://www.globalspecies.org/ntaxa/385773

⁴USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). Accessed on 11-15-16. https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

⁵Pest and Damage Record Database, California Department of Food and Agriculture, Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services. http://phpps.cdfa.ca.gov/user/frmLogon2.asp

Responsible Party:

Javaid Iqbal, California Department of Food and Agriculture; 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814; Tel. (916) 403-6695; plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.

Example Comment:
Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]

♦ Posted comments will not be able to be viewed immediately.

♦ Comments may not be posted if they:

Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;

Contains defamatory, false, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, discriminatory or illegal material;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting workplace violence, including threats.

♦ Comments may be edited prior to posting to ensure they are entirely germane.

♦ Posted comments shall be those which have been approved in content and posted to the website to be viewed, not just submitted.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Howardia biclavis (mining scale)

November 2, 2016 Raj Randhawa

California Pest Rating for

Howardia biclavis (mining scale)

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: A

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Howardia biclavis has an internal CDFA rating of A.
A pest rating proposal is required to support an official pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Howardia biclavis is an armored scale insect. It reproduces parthenogenetically without males ². The number of days for each developmental stage and number of generations per year depend on temperature, humidity and rain fall ³. Howardia biclavis completes its life cycle in 30 days. It infests the bark, leaves and fruit of the host plant by burrowing beneath the epidermal layer. It has a wide host range covering 68 families (194 genera). Recorded hosts include acacia, allamanda, bougainvillea, cassia, fig, ebony, gardenia, hibiscus, ixora, jasmine, kelumpang, lantana, lychee, mango, papaya, plumeria, poinsettia, pulasan, sapodilla, and sapote ⁴.

Worldwide Distribution: Howardia biclavis is thought to be originated in the New World tropics ⁷ or Africa ⁸. It is now found worldwide and has been reported in 71 countries ⁴. In the Unites States, it was first recorded at Kona, Hawaii in 1895 by Maskell ¹.

Official Control: Howardia biclavis has been listed as a harmful organism by Chile, French Polynasia, Republic of Korea, Mexico and Taiwan ⁵.

California Distribution: Howardia biclavis was found in California Nurseries prior to 1950 and was eradicated by 1956. It was eradicated subsequently whenever found ⁹. Based on CDFA pest and damage records database, it has not been detected in California’s natural or agricultural environment between January 2000 through August 2016 ¹⁰.

California Interceptions: Howardia biclavis has been intercepted multiple times through border station inspections, dog teams and high risk pest exclusion activities. Between January 2000 and August 2016, it has been intercepted 116 times ¹⁰.

The risk Howardia biclavis (Mining scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Host plants of Howardia biclavis are grown throughout California and this presents the possibility of rapid spread and establishment of this pest within the state. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Howardia biclavis is highly polyphagous and its host range includes 68 plant families covering 194 genera of plants ⁴. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Howardia biclavis reproduces parthenogenetically and completes its life cycle in 30 days. The crawler stage of this insect can be easily transported by people, animals, birds, ants and wind currents. Wind also acts as a dispersal agent. Long distance dispersal happens by passive transport of infested material and short distance dispersal occurs when crawlers search out places to settle and feed. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: Howardia biclavis is expected to lower crop value because it feeds on plant juices and causes loss of vigor, deformation of infested plant parts, loss of leaves and sometimes death of plants. As armored scale are chiefly spread by movement of nursery stock, possibly resulting in quarantine triggers and loss of markets for California grown nursery stock. Mining scale has been reported as an economic pests of woody ornamentals in Florida. It is considered a serious world pest. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: Howardia biclavis causes deformation of infested plants. Growers can find the infested plants unsightly. This would significantly impact cultural practices, urban gardening and ornamental plantings. Growers would need additional residential pesticide treatments if it were to infest the urban and ornamental plant environment. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Mining Scale: High (15)

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Howardia biclavis has not been found and established in natural environment of California. Therefore, it receives a Not Established (0) in this category.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: (15)

Uncertainty:

Howardia biclavis has been intercepted many times by CDFA. There is a possibility that it may have entered the State and gone undetected. If it goes undetected, there is a good possibility that it will establish on its wide host range.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Howardia biclavis has been found in nurseries in California in the 1950’s and was eradicated. It has not been found in the natural environment in the last 15 years, but if it were to become established in the State, there would be significant economic and environmental impacts. Based on all the above evidence presented, an “A” rating is justified.

References:

¹Tenbrink, Victoria L. and Hara, Arnold H. 1992. Hawaii Crop Knowledge Master: Howardia biclavis (Comstock). Accessed: 9/28/2016
http://www.extento.hawaii.edu/kbase/crop/type/h_biclav.htm

²Brown, S.W. 1965. Chromosomal survey of the armored and palm scale insects (Coccoidea: Diaspididae and Phoenicococcidae) Hilgardia 36: 189-294.

³Beardsley, J. W. Jr. & R. H. Gonzalez. 1975. The biology and ecology of armored scales. Annual Review of Entomology 20: 47-73.

⁴Scale net database: Howardia biclavis (Comstock), Accessed 9/30/2016
http://scalenet.info/catalogue/Howardia%20biclavis/

⁵USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT): Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD), Accessed 9/28/2016
https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/PExD/faces/PExDReport.jsp

⁶Invasive Species Compendium: Distribution maps for plant pests, Accessed 9/30/2016
http://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/27709

⁷Miller, D.R. Davidson, J.A. 2005 Armored Scale Insect Pests of Trees and Shrubs. Cornell University Press. xiv + 442 pp.

⁸Watson, G.W. 2002 Arthropods of Economic Importance: Diaspididae of the World: Howardia biclavis (mining scale), Accessed 9/29/2016
http://wbd.etibioinformatics.nl/bis/diaspididae.php?selected=beschrijving&menuentry=soorten&id=128

⁹Gill, Raymond J. 1997: The Scale Insects of California: Part 3: The Armored Scales (Homoptera Diaspididae). California Department of Food and Agriculture, Technical Series in Agricultural Biosystematics and Plant Pathology, 3: 307 pp. https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/plant/ppd/PDF/Technical_Series_03.pdf

¹⁰Pest and Damage Report Database: Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services, California Department of Food and Agriculture: Accessed 9/30/2016

Responsible Party:

Raj Randhawa, Senior Environmental Scientist; California Department of Food and Agriculture; 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814; Tel. (916) 654-0312; plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.

Example Comment:

Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]

♦ Posted comments will not be able to be viewed immediately.

♦ Comments may not be posted if they:

Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;

Contains defamatory, false, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, discriminatory or illegal material;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting workplace violence, including threats.

♦ Comments may be edited prior to posting to ensure they are entirely germane.

♦ Posted comments shall be those which have been approved in content and posted to the website to be viewed, not just submitted.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Fiorinia externa Ferris: Elongate Hemlock Scale

October 13, 2016 Jason Leathers

California Pest Rating for

Fiorinia externa Ferris: Elongate Hemlock Scale

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: A

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Fiorinia externa is often intercepted by CDFA and presently has a temporary rating of “Q”. A pest rating proposal is required to determine a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Fiorinia externa is an armored scale insect that is considered to be a pest of ornamental and forest conifers¹. These insects overwinter as mated females or eggs¹. Females begin laying eggs within their waxy covers in early spring¹. As eggs hatch, crawlers disperse to other needles on the same plant where they settle on the underside¹. There they insert their mouthparts and feed¹. They reach maturity in 7-8 weeks in Pennsylvania¹. Feeding causes needles to develop yellow banding and drop prematurely¹. This damage causes foliage to appear thin and weakens the trees, making them vulnerable to secondary invaders¹. Known hosts include 43 species² including: Cupressaceae: Biota orientalis⁵, Juniperus chinensis⁵ (Chinese juniper), Juniperus rigida⁵ (temple juniper); Pinaceae: Abies spp.^1,3 (firs), Cedrus spp.¹ (cedars), Picea spp.^1,3 (spruces), Pinus spp.^1,3 (pines), Pseudotsuga menziesii^1,3 (douglas fir), Tsuga canadensis^1,2 (eastern hemlock), T. caroliniana^1,2 (Carolina hemlock), and Tsuga diversifolia (northern Japanese hemlock); Taxaceae: Taxus spp.¹ (yews). Fiorinia externa may be carried long distances when infested plants or plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Fiorinia externa is native to Japan^1,2and is also found in China⁵. It was first found in New York in 1908¹ and has since been found in Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Interceptions by CDFA also indicate that the scale is also established in North Carolina.

Official Control: Neither Fiorinia externa nor Fiorinia spp. are known to be under official control by any other states or nations⁴.

California Distribution: Fiorinia externa has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions: Fiorinia externa was intercepted 97 times between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2014 by CDFA’s high risk inspections, dog teams, and other quarantine programs. Most of the interceptions have been on fraser fir (Abies fraseri) from North Carolina.

The risk Fiorinia externa (elongate hemlock scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Species of Abies, Picea, Pinus, Pseudotsuga, Taxus, and Tsuga are native to the forests of California and are grown as ornamentals. Fiorinia externa is likely to establish wherever these host plants are grown. Elongate hemlock scale receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Fiorinia externa is known to feed on 43 species of plants in 9 genera in three plant families. It receives a Medium (2) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Female elongate hemlock scales produce an average of 20 eggs during their lifetime and a generation may be completed every seven to eight weeks during the growing season¹. Crawlers typically remain on the same plant but may be dispersed long distances by wind or by hitchhiking on clothing, animals, or equipment. They may also be carried long distances when infested plants or plant parts are moved. Elongate hemlock scale receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: If Fiorinia externa were to enter California it is likely that the scale would lead to lower yields and increased production costs in managed forests, Christmas tree farms, and in the nursery industry. The scale is not expected to disrupt markets, change cultural practices, vector other pestiferous organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies. Elongate hemlock scale receives a Medium (2) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: The establishment of Fiorinia externa in California would be likely to disrupt natural communities, as it infests forests and increases the susceptibility of trees to other pests and diseases. The scale is not expected to directly affect any threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats. Elongate scale insect is likely to trigger additional treatment programs in managed forests, Christmas tree farms, and the nursery industry. The scale is also likely to significantly impact cultural practices and ornamental plantings. Fiorinia externa receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

**Consequences of Introduction to California for Fiorinia externa (elongate hemlock scale): High (13)**

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Fiorinia externa has never been found in the environment and receives a Not established (0) in this category.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (13)

Uncertainty:

Impacts on forests may potentially be more significant than loss of trees. Stands of dead trees may affect the rate of runoff and water supplies and could affect the stability of mountain and canyon slopes. There have not been any recent formal surveys of the scales of conifers in California. It is possible that Fiorinia externa could be present in some localities.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Elongate hemlock scale (Fiorinia externa) has never been found in the environment of California and would likely have significant economic and environmental impacts if it were to enter the state. An “A”-rating is justified.

References:

¹Hoover, Gregory A. 2009. Elongate Hemlock Scale (Fiorinia externa Ferris) Fact Sheet. Pennsylvania State University. http://ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/elongate-hemlock-scale

² McClure, Mark S. Pest Alert: Elongate Hemlock Scale. USDA Forest Service Northeastern Area NA-PR-01-02 http://www.na.fs.fed.us/spfo/pubs/pest_al/ehscale/ehscale.htm

³ Elongate Hemlock Scale Fiorinia externa Ferris. PSU Christmas Tree Pest Fact Sheets. http://extension.psu.edu/pests/ipm/agriculture/christmas-tree/pest-fact-sheets/needle-discoloration-and-injury/elongate-hemlock-scale.pdf

⁴ USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

⁵ SEL Catalog Query results for Fiorinia externa Ferris. http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Fioriniaexterna.htm

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Boxwood Scale | Pinnaspis buxi (Bouche)

September 23, 2016 Jason Leathers

California Pest Rating for

Pinnaspis buxi (Bouché): Boxwood Scale

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: A

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Pinnaspis buxi is frequently intercepted by CDFA. A pest rating proposal is required to support its permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Pinnaspis buxi is a widespread, polyphagous armored scale insect that feeds on a wide variety of hosts. Known hosts include Apocynaceae: Nerium odorum^1,2; Aquifoliaceae: Ilex vomitoria^1,2; Araceae: Aglaonema philippinensis^1,2, Alocasia sp.^1,2, Anthurium magnificum^1,2, Anthurium crystallinum^1,2, Anthurium grandi^1,2, Anubias sp.^1,2, Colocasia esculenta^1,2, Epipremnum sp.^1,2, Homalomena philippinensis^1,2, Monstera deliciosa^1,2, Monstera sp.^1,2, Philodendron sp.^1,2, Philodendron pertusum^1,2, Pothos seemanii^1,2, Rhodospatha sp.^1,2, Scindapsus sp.^1,2, Scindapsus aureus^1,2, Spathiphyllum sp.^1,2; Arecaceae: Acrocomia sp.^1,2, Acrocomia media^1,2, Areca lutescens^1,2, Areca catechu^1,2, Areca sp.^1,2, Calamus sp.^1,2, Chamaerops sp.^1,2, Chrysalidocarpus lutescens^1,2, Cocos nucifera^1,2, Daemonorops lewisianus^1,2, Dictyosperma sp.^1,2, Dictyosperma album^1,2, Howeia forsteriana^1,2, Howeia belmoreana^1,2, Licuala grandis^1,2, Neodypsis^1,2, Phoenix sp.^1,2, Pinanga kuhlii^1,2, Raphia sp.^1,2, Rhapis sp.^1,2, Tachycarpus sp.^1,2, Thrinax excelsa^1,2, Trachycarpus sp.^1,2, Veitchia joannis^1,2; Asteraceae: Chrysanthemum morifolium^1,2; Bromeliaceae: Tillandsia sp.^1,2, Vriesea polonia^1,2; Burseraceae: Canarium commune^1,2; Buxaceae: Buxus sp.^1,2, Buxus sempervirens^1,2; Celastraceae: Siphonodon celastrineus^1,2; Cucurbitaceae: Momordica charantia^1,2, Momordica sp.^1,2; Cupressaceae: Cunninghamia sp.¹; Cyperaceae: Cyperus alternifolius^1,2; Ebenaceae: Diospyros sp.^1,2, Diospyros oleoides^1,2; Euphorbiaceae: Aleurites montana^1,2, Hevea brasiliensis^1,2; Fabaceae: Cassia fistula^1,2, Hardwickia binata^1,2, Inocarpus fagifer^1,2, Kentia sp.^1,2, Phaseolus vulgaris^1,2, Tamarindus indica^1,2; Heliconiaceae: Heliconia bihai^1,2, Heliconia sp.^1,2; Iridaceae: Dietes bicolor², Moraea bicolor¹; Juncaceae: Prinonium sp.^1,2; Lecythidaceae: Barringtonia edulis^1,2; Liliaceae: Aloe sp.^1,2, Cordyline terminalis^1,2, Cordyline fruticosa^1,2, Dracaena sp.^1,2; Lythraceae: Punica granatum¹; Magnoliaceae: Magnolia glandiflora^1,2, Michelia chambaka^1,2; Malvaceae: Gossypium barbadense^1,2, Hibiscus arnottianus^1,2, Hibiscus sp.^1,2, Sida sp.², Theobroma cacao¹; Marantaceae: Maranta sp.^1,2; Meliaceae: Dysoxylum sp.², Sandoricum sp.^1,2, Trichilia sp.^1,2; Moraceae: Artocarpus integrifolia^1,2, Artocarpus heterophyllus^1,2, Ficus glomerata^1,2; Musaceae: Musa sp.^1,2; Ochnaceae: Schuurmansia sp.^1,2; Oleaceae: Olea cuspidata^1,2, Olea sp.^1,2; Orchidaceae: Dendrobium sp.^1,2, Epidendrum sp.^1,2; Pandanaceae: Pandanus sp.^1,2, Pandanus conideus^1,2, Pandanus hornei^1,2, Pandanus odoratissimus^1,2, Pandanus seychellarum^1,2, Pandanus upoluensis^1,2, Pandanus utilis^1,2; Pinaceae: Pinus sp.^1,2; Piperaceae: Piper sp.^1,2; Polypodiaceae: Asplenium sp.^1,2; Proteaceae: Helicia sp.^1,2; Pteridaceae: Adiantum aethiopicum^1,2; Rubiaceae: Coprosma laevigata^1,2, Morinda citrifolia^1,2; Rutaceae: Citrus sp.^1,2; Smilacaceae: Smilax sp.^1,2; Solanaceae: Lycopersicon esculentum^1,2; Strelitziaceae: Strelitzia sp.^1,2, Strelitzia reginae^1,2; Thymelaeaceae: Daphne oleoides²; Ulmaceae: Celtis philippinensis^1,2; Verbenaceae: Lantana commersoni^1,2. The scale can spread long distances when infested plants or plant products are moved in commerce.

Worldwide Distribution: Pinnaspis buxi is widespread in Afrotropical, Australasian, Nearctic, Neotropical, Oriental, and Palearctic regions². In the United States it can be found in Florida, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico & Vieques Island, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Hawaiian Islands².

Official Control: Pinnaspis buxi is listed as a quarantine pest by Costa Rica, Japan, New Zealand, and Seychelles.

California Distribution: Pinnaspis buxi has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions: Pinnaspis buxi is commonly intercepted. Between January 1, 2000 and December 4, 2014 the scale was intercepted 857 times. Interceptions were typically on plants or plant material imported from Hawaii, Costa Rica, and Florida.

The risk Pinnaspis buxi (boxwood scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Pinnaspis buxi is highly polyphagous and feeds on a wide variety of plants, many of which are grown in California. The scale is likely able to establish wherever host plants are grown. Boxwood scale receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California, or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Pinnaspis buxi feeds on a wide variety of plants in at least 44 families. It receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Scale insects have high reproductive rates. They may spread long distances when host plants are moved. Furthermore, they may spread by wind or by hitchhiking on clothing, animals, or equipment. Pinnaspis buxi receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: Despite the worldwide distribution and polyphagous nature of Pinnaspis buxi it does not appear to be documented as causing economic damage. Nevertheless, it is listed as a quarantine pest by several nations so it has the potential to trigger a loss of markets. Furthermore, it may increase production costs in citrus and in nursery industries as growers may treat to ensure fruit or plant cleanliness. Pinnaspis buxi receives a Medium(2) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: Pinnaspis buxi is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It is not expected to directly affect threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats. The scale may trigger additional chemical treatment programs by the citrus and nursery industries and by residents who find infested plants unsightly. It is not expected to significantly impact cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings. Boxwood scale receives a Medium(2) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

**Consequences of Introduction to California for Pinnaspis buxi (Boxwood Scale): High(13)**

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Pinnaspis buxi has never been found in California and receives a Not established (0) in this category.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High(13)

Uncertainty:

Pinnaspis buxi is commonly intercepted. It is likely that the scale has entered California many other times and escaped detection. There have been no formal surveys for this scale in the state. It is therefore possible that it could be present in some locations in California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Pinnaspis buxi is a polyphagous scale that may has never been found in the environment of California. If it were to enter the state, it could be expected to have economic impacts in the nursery and citrus industries. It may also have environmental impacts by triggering new chemical treatments. An “A”-rating is justified.

References:

¹Miller, Dug, Yair Ben-Dov, Gary Gibson, and Nate Hardy. ScaleNet.

http://scalenet.info/catalogue/Pinnaspis%20buxi/

²SEL Catalog query results: http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Pinnaspisbuxi.htm

³ USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Lesser Snow Scale | Pinnaspis strachani (Cooley)

September 23, 2016 Jason Leathers

California Pest Rating for

Pinnaspis strachani (Cooley): Lesser Snow Scale

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: A

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Pinnaspis strachani is frequently intercepted by CDFA. A pest rating proposal is required to support the permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Pinnaspis strachani is a highly polyphagous armored scale insect that feeds on a wide variety of plants. Known hosts include: Acanthaceae: Justicia sp.¹, Thunbergia grandiflora¹; Amaryllidaceae: Agave fourcroytes¹, Crinum sp.¹, Crinum asiaticum¹, Eucharis sp.¹, Polianthes tuberosa¹; Anacardiaceae: Anacardium occidentale¹, Mangifera sp.¹, Mangifera odorata¹, Mangifera indica¹; Annonaceae: Annona muricata¹, Annona squamosa¹, Annona sp.¹, Annona reticulata¹, Cananga odorata¹, Polyalthia longifolia¹, Uvaria sp.¹; Apocynaceae: Calotropis procera¹, Nerium sp.¹, Pachypodium sp.¹, Parsonsia sp.¹, Plumeria sp.¹, Plumeria alba¹, Plumeria rubra¹, Plumeria tuberculata¹, Vallesia glabra¹; Araceae: Colocasia esculenta¹, Rhaphidophora sp.¹; Araliaceae: Arailia sp.¹, Schefflera sp.¹, Arecaceae: Acanthophoenix sp.¹, Attalea gomphocarpa¹, Chamaerops , Chrysalidocarpus sp.¹, Cocos nucifera¹, Cocos sp.¹, Elaeis guineensis¹, Heterospathe sp.¹, Howea sp.¹, Kentia sp.¹, Latania sp.¹, Licuala sp.¹, Livistona sp.¹, Phoenix dactylifera¹, Rhapis sp.¹, Roystonea regia¹, Sabal sp.¹, Thrinax sp.¹, Trachycarpus sp.¹, Veitchia joannis¹, Verschaffeltia¹; Asparagaceae: Agave sisalana¹, Agave americana¹, Cordyline sp.¹, Dracaena sp.¹, Furcraea gigantea¹, Liriope sp.¹, Yucca sp.¹; Asteraceae: Chrysanthemum indicum¹, Fitchia sp.¹, Psiadia sp.¹, Scalesia incisa¹, Scalesia affinis¹; Boraginaceae: Coldenia fusca¹, Cordia lutea¹, Cordia alba¹, Cordia macrostachya¹, Heliotropium arborescens¹, Messerschmidia argentea¹, Tournefortia sp.¹, Tournefortia argentea¹; Brassicaceae: Thelypodium sp.¹, Bromeliaceae: Ananas comosus¹, Bromelia sp.¹; Cannaceae: Canna indica¹; Combretaceae: Conocarpus erecta¹, Terminalia sp.¹, Terminalia catappa¹, Terminalia calamansanay¹, Terminalia complanata¹; Convolvulaceae: Ipomoea batatas¹, Ipomoea grandiflora¹; Crassulaceae: Bryophyllum pinnata¹; Cucurbitaceae: Benincasa cerifera¹, Cucurbita sp.¹, Cucurbita maxima¹, Cucurbita pepo¹, Sechium sp.¹, Sechium edulis¹, Trichosanthes sp.¹; Cycadaceae: Cycas sp.¹, Cycas revoluta¹, Dioon edule¹, Zamia sp.¹; Dioscoreaceae: Dioscorea alata¹, Dioscorea bulbifera¹, Dioscorea sp.¹, Ebenaceae: Diospyros chloroxylon¹, Diospyros kaki¹; Elaeocarpaceae: Muntingia calabura¹; Euphorbiaceae: Acalypha wilkesiana¹, Aleurites moluccana¹, Chamaesyce amplexicaulis¹, Croton lucidus¹, Croton sp.¹, Euphorbiaceae heterophylla¹, Euphorbiaceae sp.¹, Euphorbiaceae nivulia¹, Euphorbiaceae pulcherrima¹, Excoecaria agallocha¹, Hevea brasiliensis¹, Hippomane mancinella¹, Jatropha curcas¹, Manihot sp.¹, Manihot esculenta¹, Pedilanthus sp.¹, Ricinus communis¹; Fabaceae: Acacia melanoxylon¹, Albizia stipulata¹, Albizia sp.¹, Bahuinia variegata¹, Bauhinia sp.¹, Bauhinia pauletia¹, Bauhinia purpurea¹, Bauhinia sp.¹, Caesalpinia sp.¹, Caesalpinia pulcherrima¹, Caesalpinia crista¹, Cajanus indicus¹, Cajanus sp.¹, Cajanus cajan¹, Canavalia microcarpa¹, Cassia alata¹, Cassia tora¹, Cassia occidentalis¹, Crotalaria usaramoensis¹, Crotalaria hirsuta¹, Crotalaria sp.¹, Delonix regia¹, Desmodium lasiocarpum¹, Enterolobium cyclocarpum¹, Erythrina subumbrans¹, Erythrina sp.¹, Erythrina poeppigiana¹, Erythrina lithosperma¹, Erythrina indica¹, Erythrina glauca¹, Galactia striata¹, Inocarpus fagiferus¹, Intsia bijuga¹, Lablab purpureus¹, Leucaena leucocephala¹, Lonchocarpus pentaphyllus¹, Macroptilium lathyroides¹, Mimosa pigra¹, Mimosa pudica¹, Phaseolus vulgaris¹, Pithecolobium saman¹, Prosopis sp.¹, Pueraria thunbergiana¹, Samanea saman¹, Sophora tomentosa¹, Wistaria sp.¹; Geraniaceae: Geranium sp.¹, Pelargonium radula¹, Pelargonium zonale¹; Gesneriaceae: Saintpaulia sp.¹; Heliconiaceae: Heliconia sp.¹; Hernandiaceae: Hernandia ovigera¹, Hernandia peltata¹; Lamiaceae: Ocimum gratissimum¹; Lauraceae: Cassytha filiformis¹, Cinnamomum camphora¹, Persea americana¹; Lecythidaceae: Barringtonia sp.¹, Barringtonia asiatica¹, Barringtonia thurstonii¹, Barringtonia butonica¹; Liliaceae: Aloe sp.¹, Asparagus officinalis¹, Asparagus sprengeri¹, Asparagus plumosus¹, Cordyline terminalis¹, Ophiopogon japonicus¹, Ophiopogon intermedius¹, Rhipogonum scandens¹, Sansevieria metallica¹, Sansevieria sp.¹, Yucca gloriosa¹; Lythraceae: Lagerstroemia indica¹, Punica granatum¹; Magnoliaceae: Magnolia grandiflora¹; Malvaceae: Abutilon hybridum¹, Abutilon sp.¹, Althaea officinalis¹, Bastardia vicosa¹, Ceiba sp.¹, Ceiba pentrandra¹, Dombeya sp.¹, Gossypium sp.¹, Gossypium hirsutum¹, Gossypium barbadense¹, Gossypium arboreum¹, Guazuma ulmifolia¹, Hibiscus sp.¹, Hibiscus syriacus¹, Hibiscus tiliaceus¹, Hibiscus sabdariffa¹, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis¹, Hibiscus mutabilis¹, Hibiscus manihot¹, Hibiscus esculentus¹, Malvastrum americanum¹, Malvaviscus arboreus¹, Ochroma sp.¹, Pachira insignis¹, Sida sp.¹, Sida acuta¹, Sterculia sp.¹, Thespesia sp.¹, Thespesia propulnea¹, Triumfetta semitriloba¹, Urena lobata¹, Vitis vinifera¹, Waltheria ovata¹; Marantaceae: Calathea zebrina¹, Maranta sp.¹; Meliaceae: Cedrela salvadorensis¹, Melia azedarach¹; Menispermaceae: Cissampelos pareira¹; Moraceae: Artocarpus heterophyllus¹, Artocarpus altilis¹, Ficus carica¹, Ficus palmata¹, Morus nigra¹; Moringaceae: Moringa oleifera¹; Musaceae: Musa sp.¹, Musa sapientum¹; Myrtaceae: Eucalyptus grandis¹; Nyctaginaceae: Bougainvillea sp.¹, Cryptocarpus pyriformis¹; Ochnaceae: Lophira alata¹; Olacaceae: Schoepfia sp.¹, Oleaceae: Jasminum grandifolium¹, Jasminum sambac¹; Orchidaceae: Aerides¹, Cymbidium sp.¹, Cypripedium sp.¹, Dendrobium sp.¹, Odontoglossum sp.¹, Orchis sp.¹, Paphiopedilum insigne¹, Phalaenopsis sp.¹, Renanthera sp.¹, Rhynchostylis sp.¹, Trichoglottis sp.¹; Pandanaceae: Pandanus sp.¹, Pandanus odoratissimus¹; Passifloraceae: Passiflora edulis¹; Piperaceae: Piper nigrum¹; Poaceae: Cenchrus ciliaris¹, Cenchrus glauca¹, Cymbopogon sp.¹, Cynodon dactylon¹, Panicum sp.¹; Polygonaceae: Antigonon sp.¹, Antigonon leptopus¹, Coccoloba sp.¹, Polygala sancti-georgii¹, Polygala galapageia¹, Polygala andersonnii¹, Polygonum glabrum¹; Polypodiaceae: Niphobolus fissus¹; Portulacaceae: Portulaca sp.¹, Proteaceae: Grevillea heliosperma¹, Grevillea robusta¹, Persoonia sp.¹; Pteridaceae: Asplenium nidus¹; Pteridophyta: Neottopteris rigida¹, Nephrolepis davalliodes¹, Platycerium grande¹; Rhamnaceae: Colubrina arborences¹, Scutia pauciflora¹, Ziziphus sp.¹, Ziziphus jujuba¹; Rhizophoraceae: Bruguiera gymnorhiza¹, Rhizophora mangle¹; Rosaceae: Prunus sp.¹, Prunus persica¹, Pyrus sp.¹; Rubiaceae: Genipa sp.¹, Morinda royoc¹, Morinda citrifolia¹, Randia sp.¹; Rutaceae: Aegle marmelos¹, Atlantia citrioides¹, Balsamocitrus paniculata¹, Balsamocitrus chevaliere¹, Balsamocitrus dawei¹, Casimiroa sp.¹, Citrus aurantifolia¹, Citrus unshiu¹, Citrus sp.¹, Citrus sinensis¹, Citrus paradisi¹, Citrus maxima¹, Citrus macrophylla¹, Citrus limon¹, Citrus grandis¹, Citrus aurantium¹, Feronia limonia¹, Feroniella pentaphylla¹, Limonia glutinosa¹, Limonia acidissima¹, Micromelum minutum¹, Murraya exotica¹, Murraya paniculata¹, Murraya koenigii¹, Zanthoxylum sp.¹, Zanthoxylum martinicense¹; Salicaceae: Salix chilensis¹, Salix sp.¹, Salix babylonica¹; Santalaceae: Viscum sp.¹; Sapindaceae: Dodonaea viscosa¹, Litchi chinensis¹, Melicoccus sp.¹, Melicoccus bijugatus¹, Sapindus sp.¹; Sapotaceae: Pouteria obavata¹; Solanaceae: Capsicum annuum¹, Capsicum sp.¹, Capsicum frutescens¹, Cestrum diurnum¹, Datura metel¹, Lycopersicon esculentum¹, Solanum seaforthianum¹, Solanum wendlandii¹, Solanum torvum¹, Solanum sp.¹, Solanum erianthum¹, Solanum melongena¹; Strelitziaceae: Ravenala madagascariensis¹, Strelitzia sp.¹; Symplocaceae: Symplocos sp.¹; Ulmaceae: Trema guineensis¹, Trema micranthum¹; Urticaceae: Laportea sp.¹, Soleirolia sp.¹; Verbenaceae: Clerodendron thomsonae¹, Gmelina arborea¹, Lantana involucrata¹, Stachytarpheta sp.¹; Vitaceae: Cissus sp.¹, Vitis sp.¹; Zingiberaceae: Alpinia purpurata¹, Zingiber officinale¹; and Manoranjitham sp.¹. Pinnaspis strachani may be spread long distances in the commerce of infested plants or plant parts.

Worldwide Distribution: Pinnaspis strachani is widespread in Australasian, Oceanic, Afrotropical, Oriental, and Neotropical regions¹. In North America it has been reported in Mexico, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas¹. It is also present in Hawaii.

Official Control: Pinnaspis strachani is listed as a quarantine pest by Honduras, Japan, New Zealand, and Taiwan³.

California Distribution: Pinnaspis strachani has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions: Pinnaspis strachani was intercepted 1,401 times by California between January 1, 2000 and December 12, 2014. Interceptions are most common on plants and fruit from Hawaii, Florida, and Costa Rica.

The risk Pinnaspis strachani (lesser snow scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Host plants are commonly grown as crops and ornamentals in California and Pinnaspis strachani is likely to establish wherever they grow. The scale receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California, or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Pinnaspis strachani is highly polyphagous. It is known to feed on hundreds of species of plants in at least 74 families. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Scale insects have high reproductive rates and may disperse long distances when infested plants or plant parts are moved. They may also be spread by wind or by hitchhiking on plants, animals, or equipment. Pinnaspis strachani receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: Pinnaspis strachani is documented as a pest of many crops including citrus, olives, and cotton¹. Known hosts also include grapes, Prunus and avocado. The scale may lower yields in these crops and increase production costs by triggering new management programs. Pinnaspis strachani is also listed as a quarantine pest by several of California’s trading partners and therefore has the potential to trigger a loss of markets. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: Pinnaspis strachani is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. The scale may directly affect threatened or endangered species including Thelypodium stenopetalum (slender-petaled thelypodium), Chamaesyce hooveri (Hoover’s spurge), Croton wigginsii (Wiggins’ croton), and Polygonum hickmanii (Scott’s valley polygonum). The scale is not expected to disrupt critical habitats. Pinnaspis strachani may trigger new chemical treatments in agriculture and by residents who find infested plants unsightly. The scale may also significantly impact a wide variety of ornamental plantings and home/urban gardens. Lesser snow scale receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

**Consequences of Introduction to California for Pinnaspis strachani (lesser snow scale): High (15)**

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Pinnaspis strachani has never been detected in the environment of California and receives a Not established (0) in this category.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High(15)

Uncertainty:

Pinnaspis strachani is commonly intercepted and presumably has remained undetected on other consignments. It may already be present in some localities in California or may have failed to establish.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Pinnaspis strachani (lesser snow scale) has never been found in the environment of California and can be expected to have significant economic and environmental impacts if it were to establish here. An “A”-rating is justified.

References:

¹Miller, Dug, Yair Ben-Dov, Gary Gibson, and Nate Hardy. ScaleNet.

http://scalenet.info/catalogue/Pinnaspis%20strachani/

²SEL Catalog query results: http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Pinnaspisstrachani.htm

³ USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

White Peach Scale | Pseudaulacaspis pentagona (Targioni)

September 23, 2016 Jason Leathers

White Peach Scale | Psuedaulacaspis pentagona

California Pest Rating for

Pseudaulacaspis pentagona (Targioni): White Peach Scale

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: A

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Pseudaulacaspis pentagona is frequently intercepted by CDFA. A pest rating proposal is required to justify its pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Pseudaulacaspis pentagona is a highly polyphagous armored scale insect. It is considered an important economic pest of peach trees and woody ornamentals and has destroyed many peach orchards in the southeast USA¹. Known hosts include: Acanthaceae: Acanthus sp.², Asystasia², Crossandra sp.²; Actinidiaceae: Actinidia arguta², Actinidia polygama², Actinidia sp.²; Amaranthaceae: Gomphrena sp.², Salicornia fruticosa²; Anacardiaceae: Mangifera sp.², Mangifera indica², Rhus sp.², Schinus sp.², Spondias sp.²; Apocynaceae: Allamanda cathartica², Allamanda grandiflora², Allamanda sp.², Asclepius sp.², Calotropis procera², Calotropis², Catharanthus roseus², Cynanchym perrieri², Ervatamia orientalis², Marsdenia clausa², Nerium oleander², Nerium sp.², Plumeria alba², Plumeria rubra², Plumeria sp.², Plumeria acutifolia², Rhynchospermum verticulatum², Rhynchospermum sp.², Tylophora asthmatica², Vinca rosea²; Aquifoliaceae: Ilex sp.², Ilex opaca²; Araceae: Philodendron sp.², Symplocarpus²; Araliaceae: Arailia sp.², Aralia spinosa², Aralia elata², Hedera sp.², Kalopanax septemlobus²; Arecaceae: Chrysalidocarpus lutescens², Cocos nucifera², Phoenix²; Asteraceae: Arctium sp.², Bahia fastigata², Helianthus sp.², Helianthus annuus², Mikania²; Berberidaceae: Berberis², Mahonia sp.², Betulaceae: Osmanthus ilicifolius², Osmanthus asiaticus², Ostrya²; Bignoniaceae: Bignonia², Catalpa ovata², Catalpa syringifolia², Catalpa vulgaris², Catalpa yunnanensis², Catalpa sp.², Catalpa bignonioides², Catalpa bungei², Tecoma sp.², Boraginaceae: Ehretia ovalifolia², Ehretia acuminata², Heliotropium peruvianum², Messersmidia argentea², Tournefortia argentea², Brassicaceae: Brassica willdenovii², Brassica rapa², Iberis sp.²; Cannabaceae: Trema sp.²; Capparaceae: Cleome spinosa²; Caricaceae: Carica papaya², Carica sp.²; Caryophyllaceae: Dianthus sp.²; Casuarinaceae: Casuarina²; Celastraceae: Euonymus alata², Euonymus sp.², Euonymus europaea², Orixa japonica²; Clusiaceae: Calophyllum sp.², Hypericum sp.², Mammea americana²; Convolvulaceae: Argyreia speciosa², Argyreia nervosa², Ipomea batatas², Ipomea purpurea², Ipomea sp.², Ipomoea tiliacea², Cornaceae: Cornus sp.²; Crassulaceae: Bryophyllum calycinum², Bryophyllum pinnatum², Kalanchoe nadijae², Kalanchoe orgyalis², Kalanchoe pinnatum², Kalanchoe sp.², Sedum sp.²; Cucurbitaceae: Citrullus vulgaris², Cucurbita sp.²; Cycadaceae: Cycas revoluta², Cycas media², Cycas sp.², Zamia²; Ebenaceae: Diospyros sp.², Diospyros kaki², Diospyros virginiana²; Elaeagnaceae: Elaeagnus²; Euphorbiaceae: Aleurites², Codiaeum sp.², Croton sp.², Euphorbiaceae sp.², Hevea², Jatropha gossypifolia², Jatropha curcas², Jatropha integerrima², Jatropha sp.², Macaranga sp.², Mallotus japonicus², Manihot sp.², Manihot esculenta², Pedilanthus tithymaloides², Poinsettia², Ricinus communis², Ricinus sp.², Sapium sebiferum², Sebastiana ligustrina²; Fabaceae: Acacia sp.², Acacia arabica², Albizia stipulata², Bauhinia sp.², Cajanus cajan², Cassia alata², Cercis sp.², Cercis canadensis², Crotaleria juncea², Crotolaria sp.², Cytisus scoparius², Cytisus nigricans², Erythrina poeppigiana², Erythrina indica², Erythrina glauca², Erythrina sp.², Genista sp.², Gleditschia triacanthos², Gleditschia sp.², Gleditschia ferox², Glycine max², Kennedya², Lespedeza sp.², Ononis sp.², Phaseolus vulgaris², Pueraria sp.², Robinia pseudoacacia², Sarothamnus², Sophora japonica², Vigna sp.²; Fagaceae: Castanea sp.², Castanea crenata², Quercus acutissima²; Geraniaceae: Geranium sp.², Pelargonium zonale², Pelargonium inquinans², Pelargonium sp.²; Ginkgoaceae: Ginkgo²; Grossulariaceae: Ribes sp.²; Hydrangeaceae: Hydrangea sp.²; Juglandaceae: Juglans regia², Juglans mandshurica², Juglans sp.², Juglans nigra², Pterocarya stenoptera²; Lamiaceae: Callicarpa sp.², Nepeta sp.²; Lauraceae: Cinnamomum², Sassafras sp.²; Liliaceae: Draceana sp.²; Loganiaceae: Buddleia davidii², Gelsemium sp.²; Loranthaceae: Loranthus sp.²; Lythraceae: Lagerstroemia flos-reginae²; Magnoliaceae: Magnolia sp.²; Malvaceae: Althaea rosea², Althaea sp.², Dombeya sp.², Firmiana simplex², Firmiana plantanifolia², Gossypium sp.², Gossypium brasiliense², Guazuma ulmifolia², Hibiscus sp.², Hibiscus diversifolius², Hibiscus esculentum², Hibiscus manihot², Hibiscus mutabilis², Hibiscus rosa-sinensis², Hibiscus tiliaceus², Malachra sp.², Malvastrum tricuspidatum², Montezuma speciosissima², Sida², Sterculia plantifolia², Sterculia sp.², Theobroma sp.², Tilia miqueliana², Triumfetta bartramia², Urena sinuata², Urena lobata²; Meliaceae: Cedrela sp.², Cedrela toona², Melia sp.², Melia azedarach²; Moraceae: Broussonetia sp.², Broussonetia kazinoki², Broussonetia papyrifera², Castilla sp.², Ficus sp.², Morus nigra², Morus rubra², Morus sp.², Morus alba², Morus indica², Morus bombycis²; Musaceae: Strelitzia²; Myrtaceae: Eugenia sp.², Psidium²; Oleaceae: Chionanthus virginicus², Fraxinus chinensis², Fraxinus excelsior², Fraxinus sp.², Jasminum sp.², Jasminum sp.², Ligustrum obtusifolium², Ligustrum japonicum², Ligustrum ibota², Ligustrum sp.², Osmanthus sp.², Syringa vulgaris², Syringa sp.²; Onagraceae: Fuchsia sp.²; Orchidaceae:, Ellaeanthus sp.², Stanhopea sp.²; Pandanaceae: Pandanus sp.²; Passifloraceae: Passiflora sp.², Passiflora edulis², Passiflora quadrangularis²; Piperaceae: Piper sp.², Piper umbellatum², Potomorphe umbellata²; Pittosporaceae: Pittosporum sp.²; Platanaceae: Phytolacca rivinoides², Platanocephalus indicus², Platanus²; Polygalaceae: Polygala²; Ranunculaceae: Clematis sp.², Delphinium sp.², Paeonia²; Rhamnaceae: Hovenia dulcis², Rhamnus alaternus², Rhamnus sp.², Rhamnus elaternum², Ziziphus sp.²; Rosaceae: Amygdalus communis², Amygdalus sp.², Amygdalus armeniaca², Amygdalus persica², Armeniaca², Cerasus², Cliffortia polygonifolia², Cotoneaster sp.², Cydonia sp.², Cydonia oblonga², Cydonia vulgaris², Kerria japonica², Malus pumila², Malus formosana², Malus sylvestris², Persica vulgaris², Photinia serrulata², Prunus sp.², Prunus mume², Prunus communis², Prunus domestica², Prunus laurocerasus², Prunus persica², Prunus yedoensis², Prunus subhirtella², Prunus sargentii², Prunus salicina², Prunus pseudocerasus², Prunus amygdaloides², Prunus armeniaca², Prunus avium², Prunus pognostyla², Prunus cerasus², Pyrus serotina², Rosa², Rubus², Sorbus commixta², Spiroea japonica², Stranvaesia niitakayamensis²; Rubiaceae: Bouvardia², Cinchona sp.², Galium sp.², Morinda citrifolia², Palicourea sp.²; Rutaceae: Citrus maxima², Citrus reticulata², Citrus sp.², Citrus aurantium², Evodia rutaecarpa², Zanthoxylum², Zanthoxylum piperitum²; Salicaceae: Flacourtia², Populus sp.², Populus sieboldi², Populus alba², Salix warburgii², Salix nigra², Salix kinuyanagi², Salix glandulosa², Salix chaenomeloides², Salix babylonica², Salix sp.²; Santalaceae: Phoradendron flavescens²; Sapindaceae: Acer², Aesculus pavia², Aesculus hippocastanum², Koelreuteria paniculata², Nephelium²; Sapotaceae: Sideroxilon marmulano²; Saxifragaceae: Deutzia scabra², Ribes rubrum², Ribes grossularia², Ribes sinanense²; Scrophulariaceae: Angelonia salicariaefolia², Buddleja sp.², Myoporum pictum², Paulownia tomentosa², Paulownia sp.², Scrophularia², Veronica²; Simaroubaceae: Ailanthus glandulosa², Picrasma quassioides²; Solanaceae: Capsicum grossum², Capsicum annum², Capsicum sp.², Datura suaveolens², Lycopersicon esculentum², Nicotiana tabacum², Solanum verbascifolium², Solanum rugosum², Solanum uporo², Solanum auriculatum², Solanum sp.²; Theaceae: Camellia sp.², Thea sinensis²; Ulmaceae: Aphananthe aspera², Celtis australis², Celtis sinensis², Trema lamarckiana², Trema micrantha², Ulmus campestris², Ulmus sp.², Zelkova serrata²; Urticaceae: Boehmeria sp.², Urtica dioica²; Verbenaceae: Callicaria superba², Callicarpa americana², Callicarpa lanata², Lantana sp.², Stachytarpheta indica², Stachytarpheta jamaicensis², Stachytarpheta dichotoma², Stachytarpheta mutabilis², Stachytarpheta sp.², Stachytarpheta urticifolia², Stachytarpheta urticaefolia², Verbena sp.², Verbena bonariensis²; Vitaceae: Quinaria², Vitis vinifera², Vitis sp.². White peach scale may be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Pseudaulacaspis pentagona is believed to be native to Japan or China but has spread throughout much of the world¹. It is established in the east from Texas to Florida and as far north as Maine¹. It was first found in Hawaii in 1997¹.

Official Control: Pseudaulacaspis pentagona is listed as a harmful organism by Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bolivia, Chile, French Polynesia, Georgia, Honduras, Japan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, the Republic of Moldova, the Russian Federation, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam³_.

California Distribution: Pseudaulacaspis pentagona has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions: Pseudaulacaspis pentagona has been intercepted by CDFA’s high risk programs, dog teams, and border stations 408 times. Many of these interceptions have been on papaya and kiwi fruits from Hawaii and kiwi fruits from Italy.

The risk Pseudaulacaspis pentagona (white peach scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Due to its highly polyphagous nature and current establishment in a range of climates from Hawaii to Canada white peach scale can be expected to establish a widespread distribution in California. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Pseudaulacaspis pentagona is known to feed on hundreds of species of plants belonging to at least 76 families. Known hosts include many economically important crops. White peach scale receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Female Pseudaulacaspis pentagona lay an average of 80-100 eggs and have 2-4 generations per year¹. Scale insects can be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved. They may also disperse locally by crawling, wind, or by hitchhiking on clothing, equipment, or animals. White peach scale receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: If Pseudaulacaspis pentagona were to enter California it would be expected to lower the yields of many crops, especially stone fruit. It is likely to increase crop production costs. Many of California’s trading partners list white peach scale as a harmful organism, indicating that trade disruptions would be likely. White peach scale receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: Pseudaulacaspis pentagona is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It is likely to feed on multiple threatened or endangered plant species including Nevin’s barberry (Berberis nevinii), island barberry (Berberis pinnata insularis), and small-leaved rose (Rosa minutifolia). It is not expected to disrupt critical habitats. White peach scale would likely trigger additional official or private treatment programs in orchards, the nursery industry, and by residents who find infested plants unacceptable. It is also likely to significantly impact cultural practices, home/urban gardening, and a wide range of ornamental plantings. Pseudaulacaspis pentagona receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

**Consequences of Introduction to California for Pseudaulacaspis pentagona (White Peach Scale): High (15)**

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Pseudaulacaspis pentagona has never been found in California and receives a Not established (0) in this category.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (15)

Uncertainty:

There have not been any recent surveys of California for white peach scale. It is possible it could be present at some localities.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Pseudaulacaspis pentagona has never been found in California and is likely to have major economic and environmental impacts if it were to enter the state. An “A” rating is justified.

References:

¹Branscome, Deanna. 2012. Common name: white peach scale. University of Florida Featured Creatures. http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/orn/scales/white_peach_scale.htm

² Miller, Dug, Yair Ben-Dov, Gary Gibson, and Nate Hardy. ScaleNet.

http://scalenet.info/catalogue/Pseudaulacaspis%20pentagona/

³ USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Aonidiella orientalis (Newstead): Oriental Scale

June 24, 2016 Jason Leathers

California Pest Rating for

Aonidiella orientalis (Newstead): Oriental Scale

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: A

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Aonidiella orientalis is frequently intercepted by CDFA. A pest rating proposal is required to support its pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Aonidiella orientalis is a highly polyphagous armored scale insect. It feeds on the leaves of a wide variety of plants and is regarded as an economic pest of citrus, tea, dates, palms, papaya, mango, and ornamentals¹. Known hosts include: Acanthaceae: Adhatoda vasica¹, Barleria cristata¹, Thunbergia grandiflora¹; Amaranthaceae: Bassia latifolia¹; Anacardiaceae: Mangifera indica¹, Pistacia integerrima¹, Spondias cytherea¹; Annonaceae: Annona squamosa¹, Annona glabra¹, Annona¹, Polyalthia korihthi¹, Polyathia¹, Rollinia emarginata¹; Apocynaceae: Alstonia scholaris¹, Alstonia¹, Calotropis¹, Calotropis procera¹, Carissa carandas¹, Carissa¹, Nerium¹, Nerium oleander¹, Plumeria¹, Tabernaemontana coronaria¹, Tabernaemontana¹; Araliaceae: Hedera¹; Arecaceae: Cocos nucifera¹, Cocos¹, Inodes neglecta¹, Loroma amethystiora¹, Phoenix¹, Phoenix dactylifera¹, Phoenix¹, Roystonea regia¹; Aristolochiaceae: Aristolochia¹; Asparagaceae: Agave variegata¹, Agave sisalana¹, Agave americana¹, Agave¹; Bignoniaceae: Bignonia vinusta¹, Bignonia radicans¹, Kigelia pinnata¹, Oroxylum indicum¹, Tecoma australis¹, Tecoma undulata¹, Tecoma stans¹; Boraginaceae: Cordia rothii¹, Cordia myxa¹, Cordia¹, Cordia obliqua¹, Ehretia serrata¹; Burseraceae: Boswellia serrata¹, Bursera serrata¹; Buxaceae: Buxus sempervirens¹; Cactaceae: Cactus¹, Opuntia¹; Cannaceae: Canna indica¹; Capparaceae: Crataeva religiosa¹; Caprifoliaceae: Lonicera chinensis¹, Sambucus javanica¹; Caricaceae: Carica papaya¹, Carica papaya¹; Celastraceae: Catha edulis¹, Celastrus paniculata¹; Combretaceae: Quisqualis indica¹, Terminalia belerica¹, Terminalia arjuna¹; Convolvulaceae: Calonyction roxburghii¹, Ipomoea¹, Porana paniculata¹; Cunoniaceae: Weinmannia¹; Cycadaceae: Cycas revoluta¹, Cycas¹; Ebenaceae: Diospyros¹, Diospyros montana¹, Diospyros embryopteris¹; Elaeagnaceae: Elaeagnus pungens¹; Euphorbiaceae: Acalypha¹, Bischofia javanica¹, Croton tiglium¹, Mallotus philippinensis¹, Phyllanthus myrtifolius¹, Poinsettia¹, Putranjiva roxburghii¹, Ricinus¹, Ricinus communis¹, Sapium sebiferum¹; Fabaceae: Acacia cyanophila¹, Albizia lebbek¹, Albizia¹, Atylosia¹, Atylosia candollii¹, Bauhinia variegata¹, Bauhinia¹, Bauhinia purpurea¹, Bauhinia alba¹, Bauhinia vahlii¹, Bauhinia racemosa¹, Butea frondosa¹, Caesalpinia bonducella¹, Cassia¹, Cassia auriculata¹, Cassia fistula¹, Ceratonia siliqua¹, Dalbergia¹, Dalbergia lanceolaria¹, Dalbergia sissoo¹, Erythrina crista¹, Inga dulcis¹, Poinciana regia¹, Pongamia glabra¹, Saraca indica¹, Tamarindus¹, Tamarindus indica¹, Tephrosia¹; Heliconiaceae: Heliconia¹; Liliaceae: Aloe vera¹, Asparagus sprengeri¹, Asparagus¹; Lythraceae: Lagerstroemia indica¹, Lawsonia inermis¹, Punica granatum¹; Magnoliaceae: Magnolia grandiflora¹; Malpighiaceae: Hiptage madablota¹; Malvaceae: Adansonia¹, Bombax malabaricum¹, Eriodendron anfractuosum¹, Grewia asiatica¹, Hibiscus¹, Pterospermum acerifolium¹, Sterculia¹, Sterculia alata¹; Melastomataceae: Osbeckia¹, Wrightia coccinea¹, Meliaceae: Azedarach indica¹, Cedrela toona¹, Melia volkensii¹, Melia¹, Melia indica¹, Melia composita¹, Melia azadirachta¹, Swietenia mahagoni¹; Menispermaceae: Cocculus laurifolius¹; Moraceae: Broussonetia papyrifera¹, Ficus benghalensis¹, Ficus salicifolia¹, Ficus glomerata¹, Ficus infectoria¹, Ficus nitida¹, Ficus orbicularis¹, Ficus palmata¹, Ficus religiosa¹, Ficus carica¹, Ficus retusa¹, Ficus roxburghii¹, Ficus¹, Ficus elastica¹, Maclura aurantiaca¹, Morus¹, Morus alba¹, Morus laevigata¹; Moringaceae: Moringa pterygosperma¹; Musaceae: Musa¹, Musa sapientum¹; Myrtaceae: Callistemon rigidus¹, Eucalyptus¹, Eugenia jambolana¹, Eugenia¹, Myrrhinium rubriflorum¹, Myrtus communis¹, Psidium guajava¹; Nyctaginaceae: Bougainvillea¹, Mirabilis jalapa¹, Nyctaginia¹; Ochnaceae: Ochna squarrosa¹; Oleaceae: Jasminum¹, Olea europaea¹; Orchidaceae:¹; Oxalidaceae: Averrhoa carambola¹; Poaceae: Panicum¹; Podocarpaceae: Podocarpus neriifolius¹, Podocarpus lamberti¹; Polygonaceae: Antigonon leptopus¹; Proteaceae: Grevillea robusta¹; Ranunculaceae: Clematis paniculatus¹; Rhamnaceae: Rhamnus persicus¹, Ziziphus oenoplia¹, Ziziphus¹, Ziziphus jujuba¹; Rhizophoraceae: Bruguiera sexangulata¹, Rhizophora mucronata¹; Rosaceae: Eriobotrya japonica¹, Prunus armeniaca¹, Pyrus sinensis¹, Rosa¹; Rubiaceae: Stephegyne parviflora¹; Rutaceae: Aegle marmelos¹, Aegle¹, Casimiroa¹, Chloroxylon swietenia¹, Citrus trifoliata¹, Citrus limon¹, Citrus aurantium¹, Citrus¹, Feronia elephantum¹, Limonia¹, Murraya exotica¹, Murraya exotica¹; Salicaceae: Populus alba¹, Populus euphratica¹, Salix tetrasperma¹; Santalaceae: Santalum album¹; Sapindaceae: Acer pictum¹, Acer oblongum¹, Dodonaea viscosa¹, Litchi chinensis¹, Nephelium litchi¹, Sapindus detergens¹; Sapotaceae: Mimusops elengi¹, Mimusops kauki¹; Simaroubaceae: Ailanthus aladulosa¹; Solanaceae: Solanum melongena¹, Solanum arundo¹; Theaceae: Camellia¹, Thea¹; Ulmaceae: Celtis¹, Celtis australis¹, Ulmus integrifolia¹, Ulmus¹; Verbenaceae: Callicarpa macrophyla¹, Citharexylum subserratum¹, Clerodendrum phlomoides¹, Duranta ellisi¹, Duranta plumieri¹, Gmelina arborea¹, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis¹, Vitex negundo¹; Vitaceae: Vitis vinifera¹, Zamiaceae: Zamia¹; Zingiberaceae: Alpinia nutans¹. Aonidiella orientalis may be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Aonidiella orientalis is presumably native to Asia and has spread through much of the Neotropical, Afrotropical, Palearctic, and Oceanic regions. In North America it is only known to be established in Florida¹.

Official Control: Aonidiella orientalis is listed as a harmful organism by Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Honduras, Japan, and the Republic of Korea².

California Distribution: Aonidiella orientalis has never been found in California.

California Interceptions: From 1987 through 2015 Aonidiella orientalis was intercepted 225 times by CDFA’s high risk programs, dog teams, and border stations. Many of these interceptions have been on coconut, papaya, and mango from Florida, Brazil, and Mexico.

The risk Aonidiella orientalis (Oriental scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Due to its highly polyphagous nature and known distribution across a range of climates Aonidiella orientalis can be expected to establish a widespread distribution in California. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Aonidiella orientalis is known to feed on hundreds of species in at least 67 plant families. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Scale insects are capable of rapid reproduction and can be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved. They may also disperse locally by crawling, wind, or by hitchhiking on clothing, equipment, or animals. Aonidiella orientalis receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: Aonidiella orientalis is considered an economic pest of several crops that are grown in California and may be expected to lower crop yields and increase crop production costs. Oriental scale is listed as a harmful organism by several of California’s trading partners. If the scale were to enter the state it may disrupt markets for fresh fruit and nursery stock. Aonidiella orientalis receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: Aonidiella orientalis is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It may feed on endangered and threatened species such as small-leaved rose (Rosa minutifolia). Oriental scale is not expected to disrupt critical habitats. It may trigger additional official or private treatment programs in orchards, the nursery industry, and by residents who find infested plants unacceptable. Aonidiella orientalis may also significantly impact cultural practices, home/urban gardening, and ornamental plantings. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

**Consequences of Introduction to California for Aonidiella orientalis (Oriental Scale): High (15)**

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Aonidiella orientalis has never been found in California and receives a Not established (0) in this category.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (15)

Uncertainty:

There have not been any recent surveys for oriental scale in California. It is possible that it could be established in some localities.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Aonidiella orientalis has never been found in California and is likely to have significant economic and environmental impacts if it were to enter the state. An “A” rating is justified.

References:

¹ Miller, Dug, Yair Ben-Dov, Gary Gibson, and Nate Hardy. ScaleNet.

http://scalenet.info/catalogue/Aonidiella%20orientalis/

http://scalenet.info/validname/Aonidiella/orientalis/

² USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.

Example Comment:

Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]

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♦ Comments may not be posted if they:

Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;

Contains defamatory, false, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, discriminatory or illegal material;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting workplace violence, including threats.

♦ Comments may be edited prior to posting to ensure they are entirely germane.

♦ Posted comments shall be those which have been approved in content and posted to the website to be viewed, not just submitted.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis (Green): Trilobe Scale

April 12, 2016 Jason Leathers

California Pest Rating for

Psuedaonidia trilobitiformis (Green) — Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis (Green): Trilobe Scale
Photo Credit: National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (NBAIR)

Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis (Green): Trilobe Scale

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: A

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis is commonly intercepted by CDFA and presently has a temporary rating of “Q”. A pest rating proposal is required to determine a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis is a polyphagous, widespread armored scale insect. Known hosts include: Agavaceae: Agave mexicana¹, Cordyline sp.¹, Cordyline neo-caledonyca¹, Dracaena sp.¹; Anacardiaceae: Anacardium sp.¹, Anacardium occidentale¹, Mangifera sp.¹, Mangifera indica¹, Nothopegia colebrookiana¹, Schinus molle¹, Schinus terebinthifolius¹, Sclerocarya caffra¹; Annonaceae: Annona sp.¹, Annona reticulata¹, Annona squamosa¹, Cananga odoratum¹; Apocynaceae: Acocanthera abessinica¹, Carissa carandas¹, Carissa madagascariensis¹, Carissophyllum sp.¹, Catharanthus roseus¹, Cerbera oppositifolia¹, Echites sp.¹, Nerium sp.¹, Nerium indicum¹, Nerium oleander¹, Ochrosia oppositifolia¹, Plumeria acutifolia¹, Plumeria rubra¹, Thevetia sp.¹, Thevetia peruviana¹, Trachelospermum foetidum¹; Araceae: Monstera deliciosa¹, Philodendrom sp.¹, Pothos aureus¹; Arecaceae: Cocos nucifera¹, Dictyosperma alba¹, Elaeis guineensis¹, Hyphaene thebaica¹; Bignoniaceae: Crescentia cujete¹, Pyrostegia venusta¹; Boraginaceae: Cordia myxa¹; Bromeliaceae: Ananas sativa¹; Caricaceae: Carica papaya¹; Combretaceae: Terminalia arjuna¹, Terminalia catappa¹; Corylaceae: Corylus sp.¹; Ebenaceae: Diospyros sp.¹, Diospyros eriantha¹, Diospyros kaki¹; Euphorbiaceae: Aleurites sp.¹, Aleurites fordi¹, Aleurites moluccana¹, Aleurites montana¹, Codiaeum sp.¹, Gelonium lanceolatum¹, Hura crepitans¹, Jatropha curcas¹; Fabaceae: Acacia simplicifolia¹, Acacia spirorbis¹, Bauhinia sp.¹, Bauhinia monandra¹, Bauhinia variegata¹, Cassia sp.¹, Cassia siamea¹, Cassia spectabilis¹, Clitoria terneata¹, Crotalaria sp.¹, Dalbergia sp.¹, Dalbergia championii¹, Derris indica¹, Mucuna bennettii¹, Pithecolobium unguis-cati¹; Fagaceae: Quercus sp.¹; Flacourtiaceae: Flacourtia ramontchi¹, Hydnocarpus wightiana¹, Scolopia oldhamii¹; Fumariaceae: Fumaria sp.¹; Guttiferae: Calophyllum inophyllum¹; Hydrangeaceae: Hydrangea sp.¹; Lauraceae: Cinnamomum zeylanicum¹, Laurus nobilis¹, Machilus sp.¹, Persea sp.¹, Persea americana¹, Persea gratissima¹; Lecythidaceae: Barringtonia asiatica¹; Liliaceae: Taetsia neocaledonica¹; Magnoliaceae: Michelia champaca¹; Malvaceae: Hibiscus sp.¹; Marantaceae: Maranta sp.¹; Meliaceae: Xylocarpus obovatus¹; Moraceae: Artocarpus sp.¹, Artocarpus altilis¹, Artocarpus communis¹, Artocarpus heterophyllus¹, Artocarpus incisa¹, Artocarpus integrifolius¹, Brosimum utile¹, Cudrania cochinchinensis¹, Ficus sp.¹, Ficus awkeotsang¹, Ficus benghalensis¹, Ficus elastica¹, Ficus pumila¹, Ficus religiosa¹, Ficus repens¹, Ficus retusa¹, Ficus scandens¹, Ficus swinhoei¹, Ficus thonningii¹, Ficus trichoclada¹, Ficus wightiana japonica¹; Myrtaceae Eugenia sp.¹, Eugenia jaboticaba¹, Myrtus sp.¹, Psidium sp.¹, Psidium cattleianum¹, Psidium guajava¹; Naucleaceae: Cephalanthus sp.¹; Nyctaginaceae: Bouganvillea sp.¹; Oleaceae: Jasminum sp.¹; Passifloraceae: Passiflora sp.¹, Passiflora edulis¹, Passiflora laurifolia¹, Passiflora quadrangularis¹; Pittosporaceae: Pittosporum sp.¹; Polygonaceae: Coccoloba uvifera¹; Punicaceae: Punica granatum¹; Rhamnaceae: Ziziphus sp.¹, Ziziphus spina-christi¹; Rosaceae: Eriobotrya japonica¹, Mespilus germanica¹, Prunus domestica¹, Pyrus sp.¹, Rosa sp.¹; Rubiaceae: Coffea sp.¹, Coffea arabica¹, Coffea liberica¹, Ixora sp.¹, Ixora coccinia¹; Rutaceae: Citrus sp.¹, Citrus aurantium¹, Citrus aurantium bigaradia¹, Citrus bergamia¹, Citrus decumana¹, Citrus grandis¹, Citrus histrix¹, Citrus limetta¹, Citrus limon¹, Citrus maxima¹, Citrus nobilis unchiu¹, Citrus sinensis¹, Murraya exotica¹; Santalaceae: Santalum austro-caledonicum¹; Sapindaceae: Dodonaea viscosa¹, Euphoria longana¹, Litchi sinensis¹; Sapotaceae: Achras sapota¹, Mimusops sp.¹, Mimusops elengi¹; Solanaceae: Capsicum sp.¹, Capsicum annuum¹, Capsicum frutescens¹; Sterculiaceae: Theobroma cacao¹; Theaceae: Camellia sp.¹, Camellia japonica¹, Eurya japonica¹, Thea japonica¹; Thymelaeaceae: Peddiea africana¹; Tiliaceae: Grewia sp.1; Verbenaceae: Premna sp.¹, Tectona grandis¹; Vitaceae: Vitis vinifera¹.

Worldwide Distribution: Although it was first found in Sri Lanka, the native range of Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis is uncertain. From its origin it has spread through much of Africa, Asia, Australia, the Pacific, South America, and Central America¹. In the continental United States the scale is known to be present in Florida¹.

Official Control: Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis is listed as a quarantine pest by Japan, the Republic of Korea, and New Zealand².

California Distribution: Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions: Between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2014 Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis was intercepted by CDFA’s dog teams, border stations, and high risk programs 139 times. These interceptions have occurred on a wide variety of commodities from Hawaii, Florida, Mexico, and many other countries in Central and South America. Many of the interceptions are on mango.

The risk Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis (trilobe scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Host plants of Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis are grown throughout California as agricultural crops and ornamentals. The scale insect is likely to establish wherever these plants are grown. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis is highly polyphagous. The scale insect is known to feed on more than 174 plant species in 50 families. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: The biology of Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis is not well documented. However, scale insects have high reproductive rates. They are capable of moving long distances through commerce in infested plants and plant parts. Trilobe scale receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: Trilobe scale is known to feed on many plants that are economically important in California including citrus, avocado, and grapes. However, despite its polyphagous nature and widespread distribution, Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis is not well-documented to be a plant pest and is therefore not expected to lower crop yields. It may increase crop production costs as growers may treat to control scale populations for quarantine purposes. Trilobe scale is listed as a quarantine pest by several of California’s trading partners. The presence of this scale in California may have significant impacts on California fresh fruit exports. Trilobe scale is not expected to change normal cultural practices, vector other pestiferous organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies. Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis receives a Medium (2) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: If Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis were to enter California it is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It may directly affect threatened or endangered species, such as Rosa minutifolia (small-leaved rose), by feeding on them. It is not expected to disrupt critical habitats. It may trigger additional private treatment programs in fruit production and nursery industries. Since it is not well-documented as a pest in other locations, trilobe scale is not expected significantly impact cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings. Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

**Consequences of Introduction to California for Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis (Trilobe Scale): High (14)**

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis has never been found in the environment of California and receives a Not established (0) in this category.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (14)

Uncertainty:

Although it is not well-documented as a pest in other localities, Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis could have a more significant impact in California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis has never been found in California and would be likely to have significant economic and environmental impacts if it were to enter the state. An “A”-rating is justified.

References:

¹ SEL Catalog Query Results. http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Pseudaonidiatrilobitiformis.htm

http://scalenet.info/catalogue/Pseudaonidia%20trilobitiformis/

² USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.

Example Comment:

Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]

♦ Posted comments will not be able to be viewed immediately.

♦ Comments may not be posted if they:

Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;

Contains defamatory, false, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, discriminatory or illegal material;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting workplace violence, including threats.

♦ Comments may be edited prior to posting to ensure they are entirely germane.

♦ Posted comments shall be those which have been approved in content and posted to the website to be viewed, not just submitted.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Radionaspis indica (Marlatt) | Mango Scale

January 15, 2016 Jason Leathers

California Pest Rating for

Radionaspis indica (Marlatt): Mango Scale

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: B

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

Since 2005 Radionaspis indica has been regularly intercepted on mango fruit by CDFA’s border stations and dog teams. This scale insect presently has a temporary rating of “Q”. A pest rating proposal is needed to establish a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Radionaspis indica is a monophagous scale insect that feeds on the trunk, branches, and buds of mango trees (Mangifera indica (Anacardiaceae)). Severe infestations can cause cracking of bark, exudation of sap, and decline of branches². Radionaspis indica may rapidly disperse long distances in the trade of infested mango fruit or nursery stock.

Worldwide Distribution: Radionaspis indica may be native to India and is also found in Indonesia, the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, Cape Verde, Senegal, Cuba, the British Virgin Islands, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Panama³. In the United States the scale is found in Hawaii, Florida, and Puerto Rico³. Regular interceptions of the scale on mangos from Mexico suggest that it is established in that country.

Official Control: Radionaspis indica is not known to be under official control in any states or nations.

California Distribution: Radionaspis indica has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions: Between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2015 Radionaspis indica was intercepted 69 times on mango fruit by CDFA’s border stations and dog teams. It was also intercepted once on papaya.

The risk Radionaspis indica (mango scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Mango trees require warm, dry weather to set fruit. In California the best locations are away from immediate marine influences in the deserts, foothills, and the warmest cove locations of the California Central Valley^{4,5, 6}. Mango trees are also sometimes grown as ornamental plants in urban environments and are present in the nursery industry. Radionaspis indica is expected to be able to establish in all of these environments. It receives a Medium(2) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Radionaspis indica only feeds on mango and receives a Low(1) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Armored scales have high reproductive potential. Mango fruit is not considered to be a good pathway for dispersal of Radionaspis indica due the limited mobility of female armored scales and crawlers and the species’ limited host range. However, the scales have high dispersal potential because they are able to disperse long distances rapidly on nursery stock and are able to disperse to any nearby trees by crawling, by wind, or by hitchhiking on clothing, equipment, or other animals. Radionaspis indica receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: California growers produce between 250,000 and 4,000,000 pounds of mango annually⁶. This is a high value commodity produced for local sales at specialty markets and demand is increasing⁶. California grown mangos are generally produced organically⁵. If Radionaspis indica were to enter California and become established in groves it could potentially reduce yields of this crop if heavy infestations cause branch dieback². Furthermore, the scale has potential to both lower crop value by disfiguring fruit and nursery stock with its presence and increase production costs by triggering new chemical treatments. Radionaspis indica receives a Medium(2) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: Radionaspis indica is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. The scale is not expected to feed on any endangered or threatened species or disrupt critical habitats. It is possible that its entry could trigger new treatment programs in orchards and nurseries and by residents who find infested trees unsightly. The scale is not expected significantly impact cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings. Radionaspis indica receives a Medium(2) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

**Consequences of Introduction to California for Radionaspis indica (mango scale): Medium(10).**

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Radionaspis indica has never been found in California and receives a Not established(0) in this category.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: Medium(10)

Uncertainty:

It is possible that sometimes the presence of Radionaspis indica on fruit is indicative of home-grown mangos that have not been produced under commercial phytosanitary safeguards. Any failure to take action on Radionaspis indica infested fruit may increase the risk of introducing exotic fruit flies and other more damaging pests into California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

The impacts of the entry of Radionaspis indica into California are expected to be limited to mango groves, nurseries, and scattered ornamental plantings. Nevertheless, this scale insect may have significant economic and environmental impacts to this growing industry. A “B” rating is justified.

References:

¹Litz, Richard E. 2009. The Mango: Botany, Production, and Uses. CABI. 680pp. http://books.google.com/books?id=oloEhPYqE8QC&dq=Radionaspis+indica&source=gbs_navlinks_s

²Peña, Jorge E. 1994. Update on status of pests of tropical fruit crops in south Florida. Proc. Fla. State Hort. Soc. 107: 340-342. http://fshs.org/proceedings-o/1994-vol-107/340-342%20%28PENA%29.pdf

³ Ben-Dov, Y. (2014) ScaleNet, Radionaspis indica. Accessible online at: http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Radionaspisindica.htm

⁴Grown in California website. Mango fruit facts page. http://www.grownincalifornia.com/fruit-facts/mango-facts.html

⁵Marks, Michael. 2013. Mango orchards in California? San Jose Mercury News. http://www.mercurynews.com/food-wine/ci_24089949/mango-orchards-california

⁶Karp, David. 2014. Mango madness. Sunset. http://www.sunset.com/travel/california/mango-madness

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.

Example Comment:

Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]

♦ Posted comments will not be able to be viewed immediately.

♦ Comments may not be posted if they:

Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;

Contains defamatory, false, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, discriminatory or illegal material;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination;

Violates agency regulations prohibiting workplace violence, including threats.

♦ Comments may be edited prior to posting to ensure they are entirely germane.

♦ Posted comments shall be those which have been approved in content and posted to the website to be viewed, not just submitted.

Pest Rating: B

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Acutaspis agavis (Townsend & Cockerell): Agave scale

October 21, 2015 Jason Leathers

California Pest Rating for

Acutaspis agavis (Townsend & Cockerell): Agave scale

Hemiptera: Diaspididae

Pest Rating: B

PEST RATING PROFILE

Initiating Event:

On March 21, 2014, Dr. Gillian Watson identified the armored scale Acutaspis agavis from a sample collected from plants growing outdoors at a school in La Jolla, San Diego County. A heavy infestation was reported at the site on the adaxial leaf surfaces of Agave tequilana. Tissue dieback was reported on the most infested leaves and there was no evidence of parasitism or predation. The insect is currently Q-rated, so a pest rating proposal is needed to determine future direction.

History & Status:

Background: Acutaspis agavis is host specific to Agave spp. The primary pathway for spread of the scale is likely the movement of infested agave plants.

Worldwide Distribution: Acutaspis agavis is probably native to Mexico. It has also been reported from Costa Rica, Venezuela, and Trinidad and Tobago. In the United States it has been found in Arizona, Florida, and Texas.

Official Control: Acutaspis agavis is not known to be under official control in any other states or nations.

California Distribution: Acutaspis agavis is only known from an incursion at a school in La Jolla.

California Interceptions: The only instance of an Acutaspis agavis detection in a regulatory situation was in a nursery in El Cajon in 2012.

The risk Acutaspis agavis (Agave scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Agave are commonly grown as ornamental plants in California and the scale is expected to be able to establish wherever they are grown. Acutaspis agavis receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Acutaspis agavis is specific to Agave The scale receives a Low(1) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Evidence suggests that Acutaspis agavis has two generations per year²and each female is presumably capable of laying hundreds of eggs. Adult female armored scales are immobile, but populations may be transported long distances through commerce in infested plants. Acutaspis agavis receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: Acutaspis agavis has the potential to increase production costs of Agave plants in the nursery industry. The scale is not expected to lower crop yield, trigger lost markets, alter cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies. Agave scale receives a Low(1) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

A. The pest could lower crop yield.

B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: Acutaspis agavis has the potential to trigger new chemical treatments in the nursery industry and by residents who find infested plants unsightly. Agave plants are popular and widely grown, especially in southern California. In the absence of natural enemies agave scale has the potential to significantly impact these cultural practices. Agave scale is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. The scale is also not expected to affect threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats. Agave scale receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

**Consequences of Introduction to California for Acutaspis agavis (Agave scale): Medium(11)**

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Acutaspis agavis is only known from an incursion at a school in La Jolla. It is unknown if the scale has spread to other agave plants in the area. Agave scale receives a Low(-1) in this category.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: Medium(10)

Uncertainty:

Agave plants are popular landscape plants, especially in southern California. There have been no surveys for Acutaspis agavis and it may be present in other locations.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Economic impacts of Acutaspis agavis should be limited to possible increases in production costs of agave plants in the nursery industry. However, the entry of agave scale into California may have significant environmental impacts due to the popularity of the plant and the absence of its natural enemies. A B-rating is justified.

References:

¹Systematic Entomology Laboratory. http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Acutaspisagavis.htm

²Salas-Araiza, M.D., R.W. Jones, G. Montesinos-Silva, E. Salazar-Solis, L.A. Parra-Negrete, O. Martinez-Jaime, R. Ramirez-Malagon, and S. Flores-Mejia. 2008. Population dynamics of the agave scale, Acutaspis agavis (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), on Agave tequilana var. azul (Agavaceae) in Central Mexico. Southwestern Entomologist 33(4):289-298. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.3958/0147-1724-33.4.289