California Red Scale vs Mountain Lace Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute California Red Scale Mountain Lace Bug
Scientific Name Aonidiella aurantii Derephysia foliacea
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Diaspididae Tingidae
Size 1.5-2 mm diameter 2-4 mm body length
Habitat Orchards Mountains
Diet Herbivores Sap Feeders
Regions Worldwide citrus-growing regions Europe, Mediterranean mountains
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.

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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.

Mountain Lace Bug

A tiny bug with lace-like wing patterns found on alpine herbs. Its transparent, sculptured wings are remarkably ornate under magnification.

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Did You Know?

Its wings have an intricate net-like structure that looks like fine lacework.