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How to Manage Pests
UC Pest Management Guidelines
Turfgrass
Bermudagrass Scale
Scientific Name: Odonaspis ruthae
(Reviewed 6/03,
updated 6/03)
In this Guideline:
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DESCRIPTION OF THE PEST
Bermudagrass scales are 0.06 inch (1.6 mm) long, clam-shaped, and white
armored. They are found on the crown, stolons, and under leaf sheaths of
bermudagrass. High populations of bermudagrass scales create a whitish, moldy
appearance on stems and crowns. Close examination of the grass with a hand lens
will help to distinguish the clam-shaped shields.
The adult female produces eggs under her body covering. These hatch into
crawlers that move to a new location, settle down, start to suck juices from
the grass, and molt into the familiar sessile form. There are two or three
generations a year.
SUSCEPTIBLE SPECIES
Hybrid and common bermudagrass.
DAMAGE
Bermudagrass scale occurs most frequently in shaded lawn areas and is favored
by an overabundance of thatch. Feeding stunts the bermudagrass and results in a
drought-stressed appearance. Bermudagrass suffering from other stresses, such
as shade or drought, is especially susceptible and infestation can result in
death.
MANAGEMENT
To manage bermudagrass scale in turfgrass, reduce the amount of shade in the
turf by removing excessive thatch, which increases light penetration. Some of
the bermudagrass scale population will also be removed with the thatch. Do not
plant bermudagrass in heavily shaded areas. There are no registered chemical
control options.
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UC IPM Pest Management Guidelines: Turfgrass
UC ANR Publication 3365-T
Insects and Mites
H. S. Costa, Entomology, UC Riverside
R. S. Cowles, Entomology, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, Windsor, CT
M. A. Harivandi, UC Cooperative Extension, Alameda Co.
J. Hartin, UC Cooperative Extension, San Bernardino Co.
H. K. Kaya, Nematology, UC Davis
Acknowledgment for contributions to the insect and mite section:
K. Kido, Entomology, UC Riverside
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