New Record of the lac Insect (Kerria spp.) Infestation on Ornamental Plant Snow Bush (Euphorbia leucocephala) from lucknow City

Euphorbia leucocephala, commonly known as Snow Bush, is a widely cultivated ornamental shrub valued for its delicate white bracts and aesthetic appeal in tropical and subtropical landscapes. However, its ornamental significance is increasingly threatened by infestation from lac insects (Kerria spp.), which are traditionally recognized for producing natural resin used in commercial industries. When colonizing ornamental plants, these sap-sucking insects extract vital nutrients, leading to physiological stress, reduced vigor, and aesthetic deterioration. Symptoms of infestation include chlorosis, stunted growth, leaf yellowing, premature defoliation, and accumulation of honeydew, which promotes sooty mold development on leaves and stems. This not only diminishes the plant’s photosynthetic capacity but also lowers its ornamental value. Infestations are favoured by warm, dry conditions and can spread rapidly through nursery stock or adjacent infested hosts. Management strategies emphasize early detection, pruning of infested branches, and application of horticultural oils or systemic insecticides within an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) framework.

⓿ A new record of lac insect infestation on ornamental plant.

⓿ Lac insect showing adaptability as per available host plant.

⓿ Finding suggest lac insect plasticity for survival.