Scale Insect (specifically resembling a Soft Scale)
Scientific Name: Coccoidea (Superfamily), often family Coccidae
Order & Family: Order: Hemiptera, Superfamily: Coccoidea, Family: Coccidae (Soft Scales)
Size: Typically 1–5 mm in diameter, though sizes vary by species.
Natural Habitat
Found on a wide variety of host plants, attaching to stems, leaves, and twigs. They often appear on houseplants, fruit trees, and ornamental shrubs.
Diet & Feeding
They feed on plant phloem (sap) by inserting needle-like mouthparts into the plant tissue. They are notorious for producing honeydew while feeding.
Behavior Patterns
Once settled, adult female soft scales often become immobile, forming a hard, protective wax or shell-like covering over themselves. They produce honeydew, which attracts ants and encourages the growth of black sooty mold.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Significant agricultural and horticultural pests. Their feeding weakens plants, causing yellowing, defoliation, and stunted growth. The sooty mold they encourage blocks sunlight. Benefits: Some species produce useful substances like shellac and cochineal dye, though most gardeners consider them pests.
Identified on: 2/11/2026