Phantasma scale

Phantasma scale (Fiorinia phantasma) is a pest impacting many ornamental plant species but is espeically prevelant on palms (family Arecaceae). This pest species was first detected in Miami-Dade County in 2018 and has since caused significant problems in landscapes and for palm growers in 5 Florida counties (Miami-Dade, Broward, Pam Beach Martin and St. Lucie). This pest has the potential to cause significant economic harm to ornamental growers, homeowners, and landscapers in Florida.

This work would not be possible without the following contributors: Dr. Muhammad Z. Ahmed, Subtropical Insects and Horticulture Research, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ft. Pierce, Florida; Dr. Cindy L. McKenzie, Subtropical Insects and Horticulture Research, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ft. Pierce, Florida; and Dr. Lance S. Osborne, Mid-Florida Research and Education Center, UF/IFAS, University of Florida, Apopka, FL.

• Resources

  Field Guide for Phantasma Scale

  An Introduction to Scale Insects

  Introduction, Distribution, and Field Diagnostics of Phantasma Scale

  Chemical Control of the Phantasma Scale, Fiorinia phantasma (Hemiptera: Diaspididae)

  Management of Phantasma Scale (this is a PowerPoint with videos so it takes awhile to download)