An Account of the Insects Noxious to Agriculture and Plants in New Zealand The Scale Insects (Coccididae)

A practical guide for anyone tending gardens, orchards, or forested lands in New Zealand, this volume brings together scattered scientific observations on the scale‑insects that sap crops and native plants. Written by a university registrar and illustrated with carefully coloured plates, it lets readers match a tiny pest to its familiar host with confidence. The opening chapters lay out the insects’ life cycles, anatomy and the sticky honeydew and black fungus they produce.

Beyond identification, the book details natural checks such as parasitic wasps and offers straightforward remedies that can be applied by growers without specialist equipment. A systematic catalogue lists each species alongside the plants it attacks, making it a handy reference for field work or classroom study. The author also explains the terminology used in entomology, ensuring novices can follow the discussion.

While focused on scale‑insects, the author hints at a future companion volume that will cover a broader range of destructive bugs, from aphids to weevils. The meticulous illustrations and clear explanations reflect a genuine effort to equip both amateur gardeners and aspiring scientists with useful, reliable knowledge.