California red scale found in South African oranges in Russia

California red scale found in South African oranges in Russia

Red scale (Aonidiella aurantii), a quarantine pest, has been detected in a shipment of oranges at a wholesale distribution center in Kirov, Russia. Russian agricultural inspectors found the harmful insect in a viable state within a consignment weighing over a ton. The affected produce originated in South Africa and entered the region via the Leningrad Oblast. While the pest does not pose a direct health risk to consumers, it is capable of spread…