Diversity and host range of the tribe Saissetiini (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Coccidae) in Kerala, India

AbstractPurposive field surveys were conducted during 2021-2025 across different districts of Kerala to document the species diversity and host range of soft scale insects. Soft scales were collected from agricultural, horticultural and forest ecosystems and road side avenue plants. Morphological characterization of the slide mounted female specimens revealed three species of Saissetiini viz., Saissetia coffeae, S. oleae and Parasaissetia nigra. The distribution and host range of the soft scale of Saissetini in Kerala are presented in this paper. The field diagnostic characters and taxonomic keys are provided for accurate identification of the species. The study reports a new distribution record of S. oleae from Kerala. Several new hosts are recorded for the soft scales, indicating their adaptability to a wider host range in the region.