Adam H. Putnam, Commissioner    -    James R. Karels, Director

Forest Health > Insects and Diseases publication

INSECTS of...Hardwood Branch and Stem

Common Name:

KERMES SCALE
A KERMES SCALE on petiole of oak leaf.



A KERMES SCALE on petiole of oak leaf.

 

Species

Kermes spp.

Common Hosts:

Laurel oak Quercus laurifolia
Live oak Quercus virginiana
Water oak Quercus nigra
Other oaks Quercus spp.

Description

Adult -- female approximately 3-7 mm wide; gall-like or globular; light brown with darker irregular lines.

Importance

Severe infestations may result in branch dieback; death of tree rare.

Signs of Infestation
Foliage discoloration. Gall-like or globular growths- kermes scales.
Control
Promote tree vigor and health. Use an approved insecticide for high-value trees or especially damaging scale populations.
Bulletin No. 196-A | Printed October, 1983 | Contact the Forest Health Section
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