Rosy Apple Aphid vs Hawthorn Shieldbug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Rosy Apple Aphid | Hawthorn Shieldbug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dysaphis plantaginea | Acanthosoma haemorrhoidale |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Aphididae | Acanthosomatidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 13-17 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Underground |
| Diet | Fruit Feeders | Fruit Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, North America, Western Asia | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Rosy Apple Aphid
A purplish-gray aphid covered in a dusky waxy bloom that causes severe leaf curling and fruit deformation on apple trees. It is considered the most damaging aphid pest of apples.
Did You Know?
Even small colonies in spring can cause 'aphid apples' - stunted, misshapen fruit with a characteristic bumpy surface that makes them unmarketable.
Hawthorn Shieldbug
A large green-and-red shieldbug common on hawthorn trees across Europe. It produces a strong, pungent smell from thoracic scent glands when handled.
Did You Know?
Its red-tipped abdomen peeking out from under the green wings gives it the memorable alternative name 'red-rumped shieldbug.'