Conifers
Guides
Cinara
giant conifer aphids, conifer aphids
Cinara is a genus of aphids comprising approximately 200-243 species, commonly known as giant conifer aphids. These insects are specialized feeders on conifers in the families Pinaceae and Cupressaceae, including pines, firs, spruces, cedars, and cypresses. Molecular studies indicate their tribe Eulachnini represents the basal group for other aphids. Several species are significant pests of cultivated Christmas trees, particularly Fraser fir production in the southeastern United States.
Diprion
conifer sawflies, pine sawflies
Diprion is a genus of conifer sawflies in the family Diprionidae, containing at least 12 described species. Species in this genus are significant defoliators of pine forests, with larvae feeding gregariously on pine needles. Outbreaks can cause substantial ecological and economic damage by defoliating thousands of forested acres. Adults are stingless wasps with a saw-like ovipositor used to insert eggs into conifer foliage. The genus includes both native and invasive species, with Diprion similis introduced to North America in 1914.