A detection of quarantine scale pest Icerya (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae) seychellarum in South Korea

Abstract

Icerya seychellarum (Westwood, 1855) (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae) is found in most tropical and subtropical regions worldwide and is a highly polyphagous pest that affects more than 140 genera of host plants. In 2023, I. seychellarum was discovered for the first time in Seogwipo-si, Jeju Island, South Korea. The specimen was found in heavily infested Cycas revoluta. Here, we provide information regarding the associated host damage, a description of the species, and details of sampling locations. The discovery of I. seychellarum is of agricultural and quarantine importance in South Korea; therefore, this study presents an opportunity to investigate new strategies geared toward advancing efforts to detect and eliminate threats in the future.