Beech Scale vs African Bladder Cicada

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Beech Scale African Bladder Cicada
Scientific Name Cryptococcus fagisuga Platypleura stridula
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Eriococcidae Cicadidae
Size 0.5-1 mm 28-35 mm
Habitat Forests Woodlands
Diet Fungus Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Europe, North America Sub-Saharan Africa
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Beech Scale

A tiny scale insect that feeds on beech bark, creating wounds that allow the Neonectria fungus to enter. Together they cause beech bark disease.

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Did You Know?

The scale-fungus complex has killed millions of beech trees across northeastern North America.

African Bladder Cicada

A sub-Saharan African cicada with flattened lateral extensions on its abdomen. It is commonly heard calling from trees in woodland savannas.

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Did You Know?

The flattened thoracic extensions help the cicada blend seamlessly against tree bark when at rest.