Carulaspis juniperi (Bouche)-juniper pest (Juniperus spp.) in the Belgrade area

Abstract

The scale insect, Carulaspis juniperi (Bouche) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), is a significant pest on juniper (Juniperus spp.). Its population number has increased in the Belgrade area in recent years. It is present in large numbers on plant twigs, needles and cones, and causes a slowdown in growth, needle chlorosis and premature needle fall, the loss of aesthetic value, drying of branches and whole plants. The presence and attack intensity of C. juniperi were determined on Juniperus spp. in 19 localities in the Belgrade area in 2007 and 2008. Its life cycle and harmfulness were also studied. C. juniperi develops one generation per year and overwinters as a fertilized female on juniper branches and needles. Oviposition starts at the end of April and beginning of May. The number of eggs laid by a single female is 16- 44. First instar larvae hatch in May and second instars appear at the beginning of June. At the end of June and in July males and females form. After copulation the males die and the fertilized females remain on the plants feeding until overwintering.