California Red Scale vs Helmeted Squash Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | California Red Scale | Helmeted Squash Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aonidiella aurantii | Euthochtha galeator |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Diaspididae | Coreidae |
| Size | 1.5-2 mm diameter | 14-18 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Heathland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Sap Feeders |
| 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.
Helmeted Squash Bug
A North American coreid with an expanded helmet-like pronotum. It feeds on various plants but is not as destructive as the common squash bug.
Did You Know?
Its expanded pronotal 'helmet' makes it look significantly larger from the front, potentially deterring predators.