coccid

insect

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Last updated

June 24, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "coccid" refers to a scale insect. These insects belong to the family Coccidae, which are small, homopterous insects. While sometimes this family includes all scales, mealybugs, and related forms, it is often restricted to soft and tortoise scales.12

Coccids are part of the order Homoptera, characterized by sucking mouthparts and plant feeding. They are found worldwide and are known for their diverse life cycles, with some, like the periodical cicada, having exceptionally long development periods of 13 or 17 years. These insects can cause significant damage to crops and transmit diseases.345

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homopteran
coccids, scales, whiteflies, and mealybugs.
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coccids, scales, whiteflies, and mealybugs.
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insect
Insects as a source of raw materials
The dry scaly excreta of coccids (Homoptera) on tamarisk or larch trees is the source of manna in the Sinai Desert. Coccids were once the source of the crimson dye kermes. The cochineal, or carmine, from
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The dry scaly excreta of coccids (Homoptera) on tamarisk or larch trees is the source of manna in the Sinai Desert. Coccids were once the source of the crimson dye kermes. The cochineal, or carmine, from
Read More