Discover the fascinating world of the armoured scale insect family Diaspididae in our comprehensive guide, 'Fauna of New Zealand 66: Diaspididae.' This paperback book features 275 pages filled with in-depth descriptions and stunning illustrations of all 49 known species in New Zealand, detailing the unique characteristics that set this family apart. Notably, Diaspididae do not produce honeydew due to their distinctive digestive system. Each adult female of the species is thoroughly described, alongside new genera and species discoveries that contribute to our understanding of these intriguing insects.

This essential resource includes the identification keys crucial for distinguishing between various adult females and their 1st- and 2nd-instar nymphs, enhancing your fieldwork or research in entomology. Additionally, the publication offers a concise history of previous Diaspididae studies in New Zealand and delves into their biology, life cycle, host plant associations, and economic significance.

For insect enthusiasts and researchers alike, 'Fauna of New Zealand 66: Diaspididae' is a valuable addition to your library. Shipping is available throughout New Zealand, with the convenience of local stock to avoid unexpected import charges. We are also happy to combine shipping for multiple orders.

CONDITION: Brand New

Pages: 275
Bind: paperback
Author: R Henderson Publisher: Manaaki Whenua Press
Publication Date: 04-03-2014

The armoured scale insect family Diaspididae is one of ten families of plant-sucking scale insects present in New Zealand, and this family has three unique features. The first feature is that the stomach of armoured scale insects is not directly connected to the hind gut, so they do not produce honeydew; the second is their armour or scale cover, in which they incorporate the cast skins of their juvenile moults; and the third feature is the fused segments of the posterior part of the abdomen called the pygidium.



In this Fauna the adult females of all 49 species of Diaspididae known from New Zealand, except the Leucaspidini, are described and illustrated. Four new genera and seven new species are described, and nomenclatural changes are noted. The 1st- and 2nd-instar nymphs of all the endemic species and of four Australian species that are of systematic interest are also described and illustrated. Keys to allow separation of adult females of all genera and species are included.



Additional features of this Fauna include: a brief review of earlier work on the Diaspididae in New Zealand; discussion of the biology and life cycle, scale cover formation, natural enemies, distribution, host plant associations including galls, and economic importance; a guide to methods for slide-mounting Diaspididae as used in the NZ Arthropod Collection.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.