Mitigating the consequences of introduction and management of an invasive felt scale

Since being introduced into the U.S, Crape myrtle bark scale has become established in virtually all states where crape myrtle can be grown. The presence of the scale prompts insecticide treatments to maintain the aesthetic qualities of the ornamental hosts. These treatments can have significant consequences for non-target and beneficial insects. When infested, crape myrtle, an exotic host plant, establishes unique associations with predatory and opportunistic species that change the community structure on and likely around infested trees. These interactions will be discussed relative to management of this scale insect in urban landscapes and production nurseries.