First record of Aulacaspis tubercularis (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) in Costa Rica, a scale insect affecting mango (Mangifera indica) in Alajuela urban environments

Introduction. Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is widely cultivated around the world and in Costa Rica nearly 8200 hectares are dedicated to production of this crop. More than 400 species phytophagous insects mites have been reported on mango worldwide. Among them 73 armored scale (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), which Aulacaspis tubercularis Newstead one most serious pests mangos many parts world. Objective. In present work, we report for first time occurrence white scale, A. tubercularis. Materials methods. tree samples were collected San Rafael, a town located central canton Alajuela province Greater Metropolitan Area Rica. Insects found leaves examined under stereomicroscope, counted classified according condition their wax covers, provided evidence activity by natural enemies. Slide mounts adult females prepared light microscope. Results. The was identified as frequency trees sampled 90%, where 12% showed predation 2.5% parasitization. Conclusion. recorded Further investigations population dynamics enemies needed provide useful information order implement adequate control strategies.