Scales

What can a large scale population cause to trees?

• Increased growth

• Enhanced leaf color

• Improved resistance to pests

• Branch or crown dieback

Where are scales of greatest concern?

• Desert plants

• Aquatic plants

• Nursery stock

• Forest trees

What do honeydew and sooty mold usually affect?

• The air quality around the tree

• The beauty of ornamentals

• The taste of fruit

• The soil quality

How can scale insects vary?

• By the tree species they infest

• By size only

• In shape and form

• By color only

What is the size range of scale insects?

• 1/2 to 7 cm

• 1/20 to 3/10 inch

• 1 to 5 mm

• 2 to 8 cm

What is a symptom of scale feeding?

• Decreased soil moisture

• Increased leaf size

• Branch gouting

• Leaves turning blue

What indicates a scale infestation?

• Thick bark

• Brightly colored leaves

• Sooty mold and ants

• Increased bird activity

How do scale insects reproduce?

• Through pollination

• Eggs produced underneath the female scale

• By splitting in two

• By releasing spores

What is the developmental characteristic of female scale insects?

• They grow wings

• They develop bright colors

• They become immobile and sessile

• They increase in size dramatically

What do scale insects extract from plants?

• Sap

• Chlorophyll

• Minerals

• Water