OYSTERSHELL SCALE

(Lepidosaphes ulmi), an insect (order Homoptera) whose protective covering resembles a miniature oystershell. The oystershell scale inflicts great damage on the trees and shrubs on which it lives. Control is by dormant spray and natural enemiesi.e., birds, mites, and parasitic wasps. The life histories of the oystershell scale, as well as the cover of the adult female, vary according to the host. The oystershell scale is found on lilacs, beeches, maples, willows, and many ornamentals. The oystershell scale occurs in almost every state in the United States and was probably introduced from Europe.