Woolly Aphid

Natural Habitat

Commonly found on the leaves, stems, and bark of host plants such as apples, elms, and alders.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on plant sap (phloem) from host trees and shrubs.

Behavior Patterns

These insects are known for secreting a white, waxy, cotton-like substance that covers their bodies for protection. Many species have complex life cycles involving alternating between different host plants.

Risks & Benefits

They can be a nuisance and cause damage to plants and trees through heavy infestations or by spreading plant diseases. They are generally harmless to humans, and they provide a food source for beneficial predatory insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

Identified on: 4/25/2026