Lit, I.L., Caoili, B.L., Caasi-Lit, M.T., Alvarez, V.K.I., & Latina, R.A. 2021 First report of the lanzones scale insect, Unaspis mabilis Lit & Barbecho (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), infesting cacao, Theobroma cacao L.. Philippine Agricultural Scientist 104(2): 175-180

Keywords:

control

genebank

host

morphology

Notes: The lanzones scale insect, Unaspis mabilis Lit & Barbecho (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), is reported to infest cacao trees (Theobroma cacao) in Brgy. Nalook, Kalibo, Aklan. Despite minor morphological differences, analysis of DNA barcode region of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) generated from the cacao-infesting scale insects (GenBank Accession Number MN114100.1) matched the DNA barcodes obtained from a complementary study (GenBank Accession Number MN114099), and hence, supported the species identity based on morphological characters. Notes on the distribution, host plant association and insights on possible control measures were provided.