Lepkésparaziták

Lepkésparaziták, often translated as "scale parasites" or "scale pests," refers to a diverse group of insects and mites that infest plants, particularly their woody stems and branches. These pests are characterized by their sedentary adult stage, during which they are covered by a protective waxy scale or shell. This covering provides defense against predators and environmental factors, making them difficult to control.

The life cycle of most lepkésparaziták involves a mobile larval stage, often called a "crawler," which disperses to find a suitable feeding location. Once settled, the crawler attaches itself to the plant and begins to develop its protective scale. They feed by piercing plant tissues with their specialized mouthparts, extracting sap. Heavy infestations can lead to weakened plants, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and in severe cases, plant death.

Common examples include armored scales and soft scales, which differ in the composition and attachment of their protective coverings. Soft scales, for instance, produce a waxy coating that is secreted from their bodies and is often waxy or cottony, while armored scales have a hard, protective shell that is not directly attached to their body. Mites, though not insects, are also often grouped with these pests due to their similar feeding habits and damaging effects on plants, particularly in their larval and nymphal stages. Management strategies often involve horticultural oils, insecticidal soaps, or targeted chemical treatments, as well as encouraging natural predators.