unarmored scale

[/ʌnˈɑrmərd skeɪl/]
nounpl: unarmored scales
cochonilha mole
1. A soft-bodied scale insect (family Coccidae) that lacks the hard protective covering characteristic of armored scales, instead being covered by a waxy or cottony secretion
The unarmored scale infested the houseplant, leaving sticky residue on the leaves.
A cochonilha mole infestou a planta de interior, deixando resíduo pegajoso nas folhas.
2. A pest commonly found on ornamental plants, citrus trees, and indoor foliage that secretes honeydew and can weaken host plants
Unarmored scales are more susceptible to pesticides than their armored counterparts.
As cochonilhas moles são mais suscetíveis a pesticidas do que suas contrapartes blindadas.
Unarmored scales are significant agricultural and horticultural pests in Brazil, particularly affecting citrus crops and ornamental plants. The term 'cochonilha mole' is widely used among farmers and gardeners in Brazil. In the United States, these pests are commonly encountered on houseplants and are a major concern in greenhouse management and crop production.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
soft scalemealybugscale insectcoccid
Antonyms / Antônimos
armored scalehard scale

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
cochonilha mole
Standard term used across Brazil for soft-bodied scale insects
São Paulo
cochonilha mole or pulgão-farinhento
Interchangeable terms in agricultural regions
Brazil - Agricultural
cochonilha de carapaça mole
More technical/precise term in agronomic contexts
Portugal
cochonilha mole or escama mole
Less commonly encountered in Portuguese agricultural terminology

Related Words

scale insectHemipterapest managementhoneydewphloem feederinsecticide

Related Idioms & Phrases

soft as cotton - referring to the waxy coating of unarmored scales
sticky situation - when plants are covered in honeydew from scale infestations
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