Description of the stages of the white wax-scale, Ceroplastes destructor Newstead (Homoptera : Coccidae)

The white wax-scale, Ceroplastes destructor Newstead, has recently increase d in numbers and distribution in some Easy-peel (Citrus reticulata (Blanco) ) orchards in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. A study was conduc ted to investigate its morphology and biology. Characteristics of the immat ure and adult females are described and illustrated from field-collected an d slide-mounted specimens. A key to the different stages is provided. The b iology of C. destructor is briefly described. Morphometric characteristics useful for separating the stages are discussed.