Scale insects are small, sap-sucking pests that belong to the order Hemiptera. They are often found on plants, where they attach themselves to stems, leaves, and roots. These insects can be identified by their protective, waxy coverings, which can resemble scales or bumps. Scale insects can cause significant damage to plants by draining their nutrients, leading to yellowing leaves and stunted growth. There are many species of scale insects, including soft scales and hard scales, each with different characteristics. They reproduce quickly, making them challenging to control. Natural predators, such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps, can help manage scale insect populations in gardens and agricultural settings.