Woolly Apple Aphid vs Chinese Character Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Woolly Apple Aphid Chinese Character Moth
Scientific Name Eriosoma lanigerum Cilix glaucata
Order Hemiptera Lepidoptera
Family Aphididae Drepanidae
Size 1-2 mm 20-25 mm wingspan
Habitat Orchards Orchards
Diet Gall Makers Omnivores
Regions Cosmopolitan in temperate regions Europe, temperate Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Woolly Apple Aphid

An aphid covered in waxy white filaments that forms colonies on apple tree bark and roots. Heavy infestations cause gall-like swellings on branches and roots.

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Did You Know?

It alternates between elm trees in spring and apple trees in summer across its complex life cycle.

Chinese Character Moth

A tiny moth whose resting posture perfectly mimics a bird dropping on a leaf. Its white wings bear a central brown blotch that completes the illusion.

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Did You Know?

Its bird-dropping disguise is so effective that even experienced entomologists can walk past it without noticing.