Beech Scale vs California Red Scale

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Beech Scale California Red Scale
Scientific Name Cryptococcus fagisuga Aonidiella aurantii
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Eriococcidae Diaspididae
Size 0.5-1 mm 1.5-2 mm diameter
Habitat Forests Orchards
Diet Fungus Feeders Herbivores
Regions Europe, North America Worldwide citrus-growing regions
Conservation Not Evaluated Not Evaluated

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.

California Red Scale

A circular reddish-brown armored scale insect that infests citrus bark, leaves, and fruit. Heavy infestations can kill branches and render fruit unmarketable.

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Did You Know?

The parasitoid wasp Aphytis melinus is mass-reared by the billions to control this scale in California citrus orchards.