The Lac Scale Insect is the source of shellac, a commercial resin used in wood finishes, food glazing, and pharmaceuticals. Females secrete a hard, reddish-purple resinous tunnel as they feed on tree sap. Though native to Asia, it is occasionally found in warm parts of North America. Female scale insects are permanently sessile and lack functional wings.
Not certain it is a Lac Scale Insect? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
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