Pine (Pinus)-Black pineleaf scale

Dynaspidiotus californica

Description, biology and damage Mature scale are almost circular, 0.06 inch in diameter, and yellowish brown to black. Young hatch in spring and summer. Scale feeding is restricted to the needles and the needles become splotched with yellow patches. Heavy infestations cause premature needle drop and may result in death of the tree. Affected trees often display a thin crown, yellow or reddish coloration, and a shortening of the needles.

For biology, life history, monitoring and management

See "Scale insect" in:

Management-chemical control

See Table 1 in: