Boxelder
Guides
Boisea trivittata
eastern boxelder bug, box bug, maple bug, adobe bug
Boisea trivittata, commonly known as the eastern boxelder bug, is a North American true bug in the family Rhopalidae. Despite being classified as 'scentless plant bugs,' this species produces defensive monoterpene hydrocarbons that deter predators. Adults are approximately 12-13 mm long with dark brown or black coloration marked by distinctive red wing veins and abdominal markings. The species undergoes incomplete metamorphosis, with bright red nymphs maturing to winged adults before winter. It is primarily associated with boxelder trees (Acer negundo), though it also occurs on other maples and ash trees.
Caloptilia negundella
Boxelder Leafroller Moth, boxelder leafroller
Caloptilia negundella is a small moth in the family Gracillariidae, commonly known as the boxelder leafroller moth. The species was first described by V.T. Chambers in 1876. It is attracted to ultraviolet light sources and has been documented at moth lighting events in Colorado.
Contarinia negundinis
boxelder gall midge, boxelder bud gall midge, boxelder leaf gall midge
Contarinia negundinis, commonly known as the boxelder gall midge, is a species of gall midge in the family Cecidomyiidae. It induces galls on boxelder (Acer negundo) and is the only North American species in its genus known to enter diapause during the pupal stage. The species is distributed in parts of the United States including Vermont.
Contarinia undescribed-species-on-boxelder
An undescribed species of gall midge in the genus Contarinia associated with boxelder (Acer negundo). As a member of the family Cecidomyiidae, this species likely forms galls or induces other plant growth abnormalities during larval development, though formal taxonomic description remains pending. The specific epithet reflects its documented association with this host plant rather than a formally published species name.