Mountain Shieldbug vs Giant Bark Aphid
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mountain Shieldbug | Giant Bark Aphid |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Canthophorus impressus | Longistigma caryae |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Cydnidae | Aphididae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Tundra & Arctic | Woodlands |
| Diet | Root Feeders | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Scandinavia, Scotland, northern Russia, alpine Europe | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Mountain Shieldbug
A small, dark brown to black burrowing shieldbug found in Arctic and alpine habitats. It has a broadly oval body with a prominent scutellum. Adults live at the base of plants and in soil crevices.
Did You Know?
This shieldbug emits a strong defensive odor when disturbed, which is particularly pungent in cold Arctic air.
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.