Obscure Scale

Scientific name: Melanaspis obscura (Comstock)
(Homoptera: Diaspididae)

Facts: Obscure scales are tiny sucking insects covered with grayish, waxy scale which is often barely noticeable. This scale is a common pest of pecans; closely resembling the bark of the limbs. It is frequently overlooked by untrained observers.

Photo credit:   Extension Entomology, Texas A&M University