First confirmed record of the giant date palm scale insect Pseudaspidoproctus hyphaeniacus (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae) infesting Phoenix dactylifera and Cynodon dactylon in Qena, Governorate, Egypt

Abstract

Pseudaspidoproctus hyphaeniacus (Hall,1925) (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Coccoidea: Monophlebidae) is a giant scale insect belonging to the family Monophlebidae. The species was originally described in Egypt from the doum palm Hyphaene thebaica. The present study documents, for the first time, the occurrence of this species infesting date palm, Phoenix dactylifera L. and bermuda grass, Cynodon dactylon (L.) in Qena Governorate, Upper Egypt. Field surveys conducted during 2022 and 2023 revealed heavy infestation on newly planted date palm offshoots and surrounding grasses. Morphological identification was performed using slide-mounted specimens and standard taxonomic keys. The observed infestation resulted in severe plant weakening due to sap feeding and honeydew production. This record highlights the importance of monitoring this pest and developing appropriate management strategies.