Chapter 3.3 – Coccid Pests of Important Crops: 3.3.1 Citrus

The citrus fruit, because of its attractiveness, good taste, and nutritive value, has gained popularity with people all over the globe. Trees of certain citrus varieties are attractive in their own fight and have been used in ornamental landscaping. Leaves of particular varieties are used as a spice, particularly with chicken dishes, and, in some cultures, the rind is used medicinally. This coccid is also called “black scale” in North America. It is the most serious soft scale pest of citrus on a worldwide basis. Some of its history on citrus crops is discussed in this chapter. This chapter describes the economic value of citrus production over the past 20 years. Actual assessment of losses caused by black scale or other Coccidae on citrus is not available on a worldwide basis.