CONTENTS AND SUMMARY 
INTRODUCTION r 
IMPORTANCE OF THE GLOOMY SCALE 
The Gloomy Scale is the most important insect pest of shade trees in 
North Carolina. 
COMMON NAMES 
The name Gloomy Scale was first suggested by Professor Comstock 
and is retained in this bulletin. 
HISTORY AND SYNONOMY 
A brief history of the Gloomy Scale is given. 
DISTRIBUTION 
The Gloomy Scale is generally distributed in the Southeastern United 
States and generally over the Piedmont and Coastal Plain area of 
North Carolina. 
NATIVE HABITAT 
This insect is undoubtedly a native species. 
HOST PLANTS 
The Gloomy Scale attacks a long list of trees, but is principally a pest 
of soft maples. 8 
APPEARANCE OF THE INSECT 
The general appearance of the insect is described. 9 
LIFE HISTORY 
The life history and descriptions of the various stages are given as 
a basis for a sound method of control. 10 
NATURE OF THE DAMAGE 
The effects of the scale on the tree is discussed in some detail so that 
the average person may be able to detect the presence of this pest.... 18 
HOW THE INSECT IS SPREAD 
The spread of the Gloomy Scale from place to place and from tree to 
tree is discussed, and it is concluded that the scale is spread princi¬ 
pally by the wind. 19 
ENEMIES 
The Gloomy Scale has a number of enemies, the chief one being a 
small parasitic wasp. Lady beetles are also active and the red¬ 
headed fungus does some good. 20 
CONTROL 
Prevent the destruction caused by this pest by planting something 
beside soft maples. Control the Gloomy Scale on trees already 
infested by spraying according to the directions. 20 
BIBLIOGRAPHY 
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