
Community identification
Woolly Aphid
Eriosomatinae (subfamily)
- Order & Family
- Order: Hemiptera, Family: Aphididae
- Size
- 2mm to 6mm in length
Natural Habitat
Typically found on host plants such as alder, maple, or apple trees, often near water or in gardens.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous; they use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on plant sap/phloem from leaves, stems, or roots.
Behavior Patterns
They secrete a white, waxy, fluff-like substance for protection and to deter predators. They often fly in slow, drifting patterns, appearing like tiny bits of floating lint or snow.
Risks & Benefits
They are generally harmless to humans, having no sting or bite. However, large infestations can damage ornamental trees and shrubs by causing leaf curling or introducing sooty mold via their honeydew secretions.