Aphytis Wasp vs Pandora Sphinx Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Aphytis Wasp | Pandora Sphinx Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aphytis melinus | Eumorpha pandorus |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Aphelinidae | Sphingidae |
| Size | 0.8-1.2 mm | 82-115 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Orchards | Orchards |
| Diet | Parasitoids | Omnivores |
| Regions | Worldwide citrus-growing regions | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Aphytis Wasp
A tiny golden-yellow parasitoid wasp that is the primary biocontrol agent of California red scale on citrus. It lays eggs beneath the scale cover where its larva feeds externally on the host.
Did You Know?
California produces over one billion of these wasps per year for release in citrus orchards.
Pandora Sphinx Moth
A large sphinx moth with olive-green forewings marked with darker patches and pink hindwings. Its caterpillar has a large eyespot that makes it resemble a small snake.
Did You Know?
The caterpillar can retract its head into its thorax to inflate the eyespot and look more threatening.