California Red Scale vs Malagasy Walking Stick

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute California Red Scale Malagasy Walking Stick
Scientific Name Aonidiella aurantii Achrioptera impennis
Order Hemiptera Phasmatodea
Family Diaspididae Achriopteridae
Size 1.5-2 mm diameter 140-210 mm
Habitat Orchards Forests
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Worldwide citrus-growing regions Madagascar
Conservation Not Evaluated Data Deficient

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.

Malagasy Walking Stick

A large, wingless stick insect with a robust green body covered in small tubercles and spiny projections. Females can reach over 20 cm in length.

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Did You Know?

Its species name 'impennis' means wingless, distinguishing it from relatives that have retained at least vestigial wing buds.