THE ASTEROLECANIIDAE (HEMIPTERA: COCCOIDEA) OF SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

THE ASTEROLECANIIDAE (HOMOPTERA: COCCOIDEA) OF SOUTH AFRICA

The 16 species of Asterolecaniidae known from South Africa can be tentatively placed in six genera based on the characters of the adult female. Some species do not fit into these genera as presently defined, requiring a redefinition of some genera or the creation of new ones. However, it appears that the characters on which the genera of the Asterolecaniidae are presently based are too few in number and unreliable, making a detailed study of other characters of the female and eight other stages necessary for a better understanding of the relationships within this family.

Key words: pit scales, taxonomic characters, taxonomy, Abditococcus, Asterodiaspis, Asterolecanium, Bambusaspis, Planchonia, Russellaspis, Amorphococcus acaciae.