Scale Insect

Natural Habitat

Found globally on various host plants including indoor houseplants, agricultural crops, and wild trees.

Diet & Feeding

A herbivorous pest that feeds on plant sap (phloem) using piercing-sucking mouthparts.

Behavior Patterns

Adult females are typically sessile, remaining attached to the plant surface permanently under a protective waxy or hard cover. Males are rare and short-lived.

Risks & Benefits

Major agricultural pests that cause plant yellowing, leaf drop, and stunted growth. They excrete 'honeydew' which can lead to sooty mold growth; however, some species (like Cochineal) are used to produce dyes.

Identified on: 2/16/2026