Pear Psylla vs Saddleback Caterpillar Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Pear Psylla Saddleback Caterpillar Moth
Scientific Name Cacopsylla pyri Acharia stimulea
Order Hemiptera Lepidoptera
Family Psyllidae Limacodidae
Size 2-3 mm 26-35 mm wingspan
Habitat Orchards Orchards
Diet Fruit Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, Western North America Eastern North America
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Pear Psylla

A small winged psyllid that is the most important insect pest of European pear orchards. Nymphs produce copious honeydew that causes fruit russeting and sooty mold.

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Did You Know?

It can inject a toxin while feeding that causes a condition called psylla shock, which can kill young pear trees.

Saddleback Caterpillar Moth

A dark brown moth best known for its extraordinary caterpillar, which is bright green with a brown saddle-shaped marking and venomous spines. The sting causes intense burning pain.

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Did You Know?

Its sting is among the most painful of any North American caterpillar and can cause nausea in sensitive individuals.