New records of diaspidid scale insects (Coccoidea: Diaspididae) in Espírito Santo, Brazil

Because accurate knowledge of pests is essential for integrated pest management (IPM), this research was conducted to contribute to increased knowledge of diaspidid scale insects (Coccoidea: Diaspididae) in the State of Espírito Santo, Brazil. Diaspidids (302 samples) were collected in 34 municipalities in Espírito Santo during 2002-2018, from 80 plant species. Forty-one diaspidid species were identified, including eight recorded for the first time in Espírito Santo: Acutaspis perseae, A. umbonifera, Aonidiella aurantii, Lepidosaphes beckii, L. gloverii, Morganella longispina, Mycetaspis apicata, and Thysanofiorinia nephelii. These species include pests of economically important crops including: Malus domestica, Litchi chinensis, and Prunus persica. Many diaspidids are significant pests and accurate knowledge of the diaspidids of commercially valuable plants in areas of agricultural production is essential for implementation of effective IPM methods for such pests. Results of this study have increased knowledge of the diaspidid species of Espírito Santo by 24%, with an increase from 33 to 41 diaspidid species known to occur in the State. The eight species of diaspidids newly recorded in this study include potential pests of economically valuable crops and recognition of the presence of these potential pests in this area should facilitate use of IPM methods to ensure sustainable agricultural production. Results also indicate that many more scale insect species may be found with additional and more widespread collection of scale insects in the biologically diverse region of Espírito Santo. Support provided by CNPq and the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa e Inovação do Espírito Santo (FAPES).