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Plumichiton diadema Henderson & Hodgson

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Crown scale
[Plumichiton diadema]. L: a young adult female; R: an empty male test. The wax coverings are thick, as these scales need extra protection for winter, when they can be covered in snow at times.

[Plumichiton diadema]. L: a young adult female; R: an empty male test. The wax coverings are thick, as these scales need extra protection for winter, when they can be covered in snow at times.

The species name diadema means "a royal circlet or crown", because this scale is jewel-like with its ruby-red margins and crystal top.

Biology: one generation a year, overwintering as young adult females. The new generation is from spring through summer, depending on altitude of habitat site. This is the only known native soft scale that has adapted to cold winter climates.

Found on the upperside of leaves of:

Gaultheria sp. [taupuku / snowberry]
Olearia nummularifolia shrub daisy
Ozothamnus [was Cassinia] leptopyllus tauhinu / cassinia
Parahebe olsenii