Spruce gall adelgid (pineapple gall aphid)

Lives on spruce trees, especially Norway spruce, where it induces galls on young shoots. It is common in gardens, plantations, forests, and ornamental landscapes.

Feeds by sucking sap from spruce needles and tender shoots. Nymphs develop inside the characteristic pineapple-shaped galls.

Females overwinter on spruce and stimulate gall formation in spring; nymphs mature within the gall, then emerge and colonize new shoots. Some populations alternate between spruce and fir, though many remain on spruce.

Usually causes cosmetic damage, distorted shoots, and reduced growth rather than killing healthy trees. It supports predators such as lady beetles and lacewings, but severe infestations can weaken young or stressed spruces.