Woolly Aphid

Found on the leaves, branches, or roots of various host plants including alder, beech, apple, and elm trees.

Herbivorous; they pierce plant tissues to suck out sap (phloem), often causing leaf curling or gall formation.

They produce a white, waxy secretion that looks like wool or cotton for protection. Some species alternate between different host plants during their life cycle.

Generally harmless to humans, but can be a garden pest by weakening plants or excreting sticky honeydew which promotes the growth of sooty mold.