Threat of Red Pine Scale, Matsucoccus matsumurae (Kuwana) to the Midwestern United States and Canada

Abstract

The red pine scale, Matsucoccus matsumurae (Kuwana, 1905) (Hemiptera: Matsucoccidae), is the most destructive pest of red pine in North America. Native to Japan, it was first detected in the USA in 1946 and has since spread northward to the Canadian border. Outbreaks cause mortality of red pine stands which could have important consequences to forest ecosystems in the northern part of its range. We review the invasion history, geographic distribution, life history and damage caused by this pest. We suggest research avenues and the importance of early detection before the insect establishes in new regions in the northern distribution limits of red pine.