Honors College Theses

Publication Date

2026

Major

Biology (B.S.B.)

Release Option

Open Access

Faculty Mentor

Michele Guidone

Abstract

In the Armstrong greenhouse, the Coccus longulus scale insect is a prevalent problem on a specific species of Begonia known as Begonia ‘Richmondensis’. Inside the greenhouse there are several types of begonias with very similar characteristics to the Richmondensis begonia. However, none of these other begonias are infested by C. longulus, despite similar leaf thickness and environmental conditions such as humidity and light. This project examined whether differences in the chemical composition of the Begonia leaves can explain this pattern. Results were not statistically significant, but they showed that the chemicals had a noticeable impact on the scale, and in many cases induced death. Richmondensis was shown to have higher levels of hydrophobic compounds within its leaves when compared to other begonias. Continued research is needed to determine what causes scale to prefer this specific Begonia, as this information may prove useful in determining how to prevent scale infestation.

Thesis Summary

In the Armstrong greenhouse, the Coccus longulus scale insect is a prevalent problem on a specific species of Begonia known as Begonia ‘Richmondensis’. Inside the greenhouse there are several types of begonias with very similar characteristics to the Richmondensis begonia. However, none of these other begonias are infested by C. longulus, despite similar leaf thickness and environmental conditions such as humidity and light. This project examined whether differences in the chemical composition of the Begonia leaves can explain this pattern. Results were not statistically significant, but they showed that the chemicals had a noticeable impact on the scale, and in many cases induced death. Richmondensis was shown to have higher levels of hydrophobic compounds within its leaves when compared to other begonias. Continued research is needed to determine what causes scale to prefer this specific Begonia, as this information may prove useful in determining how to prevent scale infestation.

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