Incidence of Scale Insects (Hemiptera: Coccoidea) on Citrus Trees in Commercial Orchards of Kwara State, North Central Nigeria

Scale insects (superfamily Coccoidea) are among the most economically significant pests of citrus globally, causing yield losses through direct sap feeding, sooty mold development, and tree decline. Kwara State has a developing commercial citrus industry, and scale insect infestations have been reported anecdotally, but no systematic survey has been conducted. This study examines the incidence and species composition of scale insects on citrus trees in commercial orchards in Kwara State. Twenty orchards will be surveyed in Ilorin East, Moro, and Irepodun LGAs over two seasons. Standard branch and leaf samples will be examined for scale insects under a hand lens and stereomicroscope. Infestation prevalence will be calculated as a proportion of sampled trees positive for each species. Association of scale insect infestation with tree age, management intensity, and natural enemy activity will be assessed. Specimens requiring detailed identification will be slide-mounted. This research will provide the first quantitative data on scale insect species in Kwara State's citrus sector, addressing a critical pest management information gap. Extension recommendations will focus on conservation of natural enemies and targeted chemical intervention thresholds. Keywords: scale insects, Coccoidea, citrus pests, Kwara State, orchard management