Ceroplastes rusci (L.) (Hemiptera: Coccidae), a new soft scale species in Serbia

Abstract

At the end of March 2016, the species Ceroplastes rusci was found for the first time in Serbia on a fig (Ficus carica L.) in the locality of Belgrade (Ledine). This species is polyphagous and causes significant damage to figs by feeding on plant juices from all above-ground parts. After the first finding, it was studied in more detail. The presence, intensity of attacks and development cycle of C. rusci was studied during 2016 and 2017 in the area of Belgrade. Тhe intensity of atack was evaluated according to the scale of Borchsenius (1963). Sampling of plant material with scale insects was carried out throughout the year, and the life cycle was followed by the method of cultivation in the laboratory. The identification of the species was carried out using the morphological characteristics of the female and using the keys for the determination by Gill (1988). In the area of Belgrade, the species was found on Ficus carica L. (fam. Moraceae) in a private yard at the Ledine location. All above-ground parts of the plant were covered with numerous colonies of scales, so the intensity of the attack was rated as 4. This degree of infestation caused the physiological weakening of the plants and the drying of individual branches. C. rusci reproduces by gamogenesis, develops one generation per year, and overwinter as fertilized female on fig branches. In the spring, at the end of May, oviposition begins. One female lays an average of about 1200 eggs. First-stage larvae hatch in the second half of June. They actively move towards the leaves of the host plant, where they feed during the summer months. The second-stage larvae are formed in mid-August, after which females are formed during September that overwinter.