Symptoms
- Mussel and coconut scales infest stems, leaves , petioles and berries in large numbers.
- The scale insects are sedentary; remaining permanently fixed to plant parts and appears as encrustations.
- They feed on plant sap causing yellowing and wilting of infested portions.
- In severe cases of infestation the affected portions dry up.
- Pest infestation is more severe during post monsoon and summer months.
- As a result of soft scale infestation the leaves become yellow wither and fall.
- When the vines are attacked the infested vines wilt and dry up.
Procedure for Observation
Mark 20standards at random from the plots and estimate number of damaged plants.