Tracking the phenology of the invasive crapemyrtle bark scale using public-submitted identification samples in eastern Virginia

Crapemyrtle bark scale (Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae, Hemiptera: Eriococcidae) was first detected in the U.S. in 2004, and then first collected in Virginia in 2014. Since its arrival in Virginia, residents from several cities in the coastal part of the state have been submitting crapemyrtle plant samples to their local extension agents or taking these samples to the Agriculture Research and Extension Centers for proper identification and recommendations on managing this pest. A total of 229 samples have been submitted since 2015, being 2017 the year with the highest total number of samples (n = 164) processed. Across all years, the highest number of samples submitted were documented during week 30 and 31 of the year (late July to early August). High number of samples were also submitted as early as in week 12 (mid-March, n = 8) and as late as in week 51 of the year (mid-December, n = 9). Using public-based information, such as the submissions of samples for pest identification, could help directing extension efforts towards managing a persistent pest, like the crapemyrtle bark scale in urban settings. It is expected that home-owners and other community members in eastern and coastal Virginia would be dealing with this exotic pest during July and August in any given year. Additional information, such as temperature and precipitation, could help to understand the variability of the phenology of this exotic pest in the eastern part of Virginia.