Pyriform scale (Protopulvinaria pyriformis) also known as heart-shaped scale, is a species of soft scale insect and a pest of avocado and ornamentals. The pear-shaped pyriform scale adult is yellowish-brown to barker brown with a characteristic white fringe. Its form is raised, scab-like and they prefer to position themselves on the underside of leaves. The pyriform scale nymphs are similar in shape only flatter; initially translucent green, their color changes to light green with age. The pyriform scale is found in Australia, South Africa, Israel, Italy, France, Spain, Cuba, Florida and Peru.
Damage
Feeding on the leaf reduces photosynthesis in the leaves and its ability to uptake nutrients, affecting production, plant growth and causing leaf drop as well as reduction in fruit size and quality. Pyriform scale secrete the excess sugar in their bodies as a sticky honeydew on which sooty mold develops. The sooty mold contaminates fruit and ornamental crops rendering them unsuitable for the market.
There are specific natural enemies for pyriform scale.
For more information contact your local BioBee field agent.
