First report of Toumeyella parvicornis (Cockerell) (Hemiptera: Coccidae) in Albania and its potential spread in the coastal area of the Balkans

Abstract

During a survey carried out in October 2023, a severe infestation caused by the pine tortoise scale, Toumeyella parvicornis (Cockerell), was observed for the first time in Albania. To confirm the identity of the species, specimens were collected and characterized using morphological and molecular methods. T. parvicornis is native to North America, and Albania is the third European country where the pest has been reported, after Italy (2014) and France (2021). In these countries, this pest is causing severe damage to stone pines through its feeding activity, causing dieback and, in cases of severe infestation, the death of the trees. These observations highlight the potential harmfulness of this species and the need for effective management action on a large scale in the Balkan area. Therefore, further actions are suggested that may be beneficial for early detection and containment.