California Red Scale vs Bee Killer Assassin Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | California Red Scale | Bee Killer Assassin Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aonidiella aurantii | Apiomerus crassipes |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Diaspididae | Reduviidae |
| Size | 1.5-2 mm diameter | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Heathland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | Worldwide citrus-growing regions | North America |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
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.
Did You Know?
The parasitoid wasp Aphytis melinus is mass-reared by the billions to control this scale in California citrus orchards.
Bee Killer Assassin Bug
An assassin bug that coats its legs with plant resin to capture bees visiting flowers.
Did You Know?
It applies sticky resin from plants to its forelegs like a trapping glue.