Giant Bark Aphid vs Gum Leaf Skeletoniser
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Giant Bark Aphid | Gum Leaf Skeletoniser |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Longistigma caryae | Uraba lugens |
| Order | Hemiptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Aphididae | Nolidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 25-35 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | North America | Australia, Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Giant Bark Aphid
The largest aphid in North America, with a body up to 6 mm long. It is grayish-brown with dark wing markings and feeds in conspicuous colonies on the bark of hardwood trees.
Did You Know?
Colonies on tree bark produce so much honeydew that it rains down onto cars, sidewalks, and outdoor furniture, creating a sticky nuisance in urban areas.
Gum Leaf Skeletoniser
A small moth whose caterpillars are known for retaining their shed head capsules stacked on top of each other, forming a tall 'hat'. The larvae feed gregariously on eucalyptus leaves, skeletonising them.
Did You Know?
Its caterpillar is nicknamed the 'mad hatterpillar' because it wears a tower of old head capsules like a top hat.