Florida Leaf-footed Bug vs Beech Scale
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Florida Leaf-footed Bug | Beech Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Acanthocephala femorata | Cryptococcus fagisuga |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Coreidae | Eriococcidae |
| Size | 18-22 mm | 0.5-1 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Forests |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Southeastern United States, Caribbean | Europe, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
Florida Leaf-footed Bug
A large robust coreid bug with distinctive leaf-like expansions on its hind tibiae. It is dark brown to black with slightly expanded pronotal margins. Males possess greatly enlarged hind femora used in intrasexual combat.
Did You Know?
When threatened, it can release a pungent spray from scent glands that smells like rotten almonds and can stain skin temporarily.
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.
Did You Know?
The scale-fungus complex has killed millions of beech trees across northeastern North America.