Sumac Gall Aphid vs Giant Leaf-Footed Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Sumac Gall Aphid Giant Leaf-Footed Bug
Scientific Name Melaphis rhois Acanthocephala declivis
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Pemphigidae Coreidae
Size 1-3 mm 20-27 mm
Habitat Woodlands Heathland
Diet Gall Makers Sap Feeders
Regions Eastern North America North America
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Sumac Gall Aphid

A gall-forming aphid that produces large hollow galls on sumac trees in which colonies live and reproduce. Soldier nymphs defend the gall from invaders using their thickened front legs.

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Did You Know?

Their soldier caste is composed of sterile first-instar nymphs that sacrifice their development to protect the colony.

Giant Leaf-Footed Bug

One of the largest leaf-footed bugs in North America with broad hind tibiae. Adults emit a strong fruity odor when disturbed.

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Did You Know?

Its defensive scent is described as pleasantly fruity, unlike the foul odors produced by most stink bugs.