Both types extract plant fluids causing leaf discoloration and leaf drop, death of small twigs and failure of fruit to color properly. Biological control has been highly effective for many species of scales.
Armored scales differ from soft scales in several ways.
Also, soft scales can secrete honeydew, whereas armored scales do not. The honeydew secreted by soft scales can support growth of black sooty mold, which can affect the photosynthetic ability of leaves. In contrast, soft scales are not permanently attached to the tree and remain capable of movement throughout their lives. The table below compares a few identifying characteristics for the armored scales of Texas citrus. Males have covers that are somewhat elongated.