Invasive-species

Guides

• Ceutorhynchinae

  Minute Seed Weevils

  Ceutorhynchinae is a large subfamily of minute seed weevils within Curculionidae, comprising over 150 genera and more than 1,000 described species worldwide. The subfamily is predominantly phytophagous and exhibits strong associations with Brassicaceae, though host plant relationships vary across genera. The genus Ceutorhynchus is particularly diverse and includes significant agricultural pests such as the cabbage seedpod weevil (Ceutorhynchus obstrictus), as well as species with potential for biological control of weeds. The subfamily shows highest diversity in the Holarctic region, especially the Palaearctic.

  Curculionidaeweevilsseed-weevilsphytophagousBrassicaceaeagricultural-pestsbiological-controlHolarcticCeutorhynchusinvasive-species

• Ceutorhynchus obstrictus

  Cabbage seedpod weevil

  Ceutorhynchus obstrictus is a small weevil native to Europe and Asia that has become an invasive agricultural pest in North America. Adults feed on Brassicaceae leaves, while larvae develop inside seed pods and destroy developing seeds. The species causes significant economic damage to canola (Brassica napus) and other crucifer crops, with yield losses estimated at 5–30% in heavily infested fields. It completes one generation per year, with adults overwintering in soil or ground litter.

  agricultural-pestinvasive-speciesBrassicaceae-specialistcanola-pestbiological-control-targetunivoltine

• Chaetophiloscia

  Chaetophiloscia is a genus of small terrestrial isopods in the family Philosciidae, established by Verhoeff in 1908. The genus is native to the northern Mediterranean region, with at least two species documented: C. sicula, which has become invasive in North America and parts of Europe, and C. elongata, studied in North African coastal habitats. Species in this genus are characterized by their association with moist, anthropogenic, and coastal environments, and their capacity for rapid range expansion through human-mediated transport.

  terrestrial-isopodwoodlouseinvasive-speciesurban-ecologydetritivoreMediterranean-originPhilosciidae

• Chaetophiloscia sicula

  Chaetophiloscia sicula is a small (~6 mm) terrestrial isopod native to the northern Mediterranean region. First recorded in North America in 2000 in Baltimore, Maryland, it has since spread to at least nine U.S. states and Washington D.C., primarily through human-aided dispersal associated with urban environments. The species exhibits strong habitat preferences for anthropogenic settings such as gardens and urban parks, as well as coastal areas including upper sandy beaches and jetties. Its rapid expansion across North America and Europe is facilitated by affinity to moist, disturbed habitats and potential transport via the pet trade and potted plants.

  invasive-speciesurban-ecologycitizen-scienceMediterranean-origincoastal-habitatsanthropogenic-habitats

• Chaetosiphon

  strawberry aphid

  Chaetosiphon is a genus of aphids in the family Aphididae, comprising species specialized on Rosaceae hosts, particularly strawberries (Fragaria) and roses (Rosa). The genus includes economically significant agricultural pests, most notably Chaetosiphon fragaefolii, which vectors multiple strawberry viruses. Species in this genus exhibit complex life cycles with both holocyclic (sexual) and anholocyclic (parthenogenetic) populations, and show morphological variation in karyotype and chaetotaxy that has complicated taxonomic classification.

  aphidstrawberry-pestvirus-vectoragricultural-pestRosaceae-specialistinvasive-speciesparthenogenesisalary-polymorphismbiological-control

• Chalybion

  blue mud dauber wasps, blue mud-daubers, blue nest-renting wasps

  Chalybion is a genus of solitary wasps in the family Sphecidae, commonly known as blue mud dauber or blue nest-renting wasps. The genus comprises approximately 49 described species distributed across North America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. These wasps are characterized by metallic blue to blue-black coloration and are notable for their unique nesting behavior: rather than constructing their own nests, they primarily utilize pre-existing cavities, particularly abandoned mud nests of other wasps such as Sceliphron species. They provision these nests with paralyzed spiders as food for their larvae. Some species, notably Chalybion californicum, are significant predators of medically important spiders including black widows (Latrodectus species).

  solitary-waspnest-rentingspider-predatorblack-widow-predatormud-daubermetallic-bluegregarious-nestingbrood-parasitisminvasive-speciesbiological-control

• Chilocorus circumdatus

  red chilocorus

  Chilocorus circumdatus is a predatory lady beetle native to Southern Asia that has been introduced to Hawaii and established in Australia. The species is recognized by its helmet-shaped body and orange-red coloration with a fine black margin at the base of the wings. It is a specialized predator of armoured scale insects (Diaspididae), making it significant in biological control programs.

  lady-beetlebiological-controlscale-predatorinvasive-speciesSouthern-Asia-native

• Chlorophorus

  wasp beetles

  Chlorophorus is a genus of round-necked longhorn beetles in the family Cerambycidae, subfamily Cerambycinae, tribe Clytini. Species within this genus exhibit diverse ecological specializations, with some acting as significant agricultural and forestry pests. Notable species include the Asian bamboo longhorn beetle (C. annularis), an invasive species in Europe; C. robustior, a pest of sainfoin in Turkey; C. caragana, a pest of Caragana shrubs in China; C. varius, known as the wasp beetle, which develops in peach wood; and C. strobilicola, a cone and seed pest of chir pine in India. The genus demonstrates considerable variation in host associations, ranging from woody plants to herbaceous legumes and conifer cones.

  CerambycidaeCerambycinaeClytinilonghorn-beetlesinvasive-speciesagricultural-pestsforestry-pestsbamboo-borerwasp-beetlecitizen-science-monitoring

• Choreutis

  Choreutis is a genus of metalmark moths in the family Choreutidae, established by Jacob Hübner in 1825. It serves as the type genus for both the family Choreutidae and subfamily Choreutinae. Several species within this genus, particularly Choreutis nemorana (fig-tree skeletonizer) and Choreutis sexfasciella (Banyan Leaf Skeletonizer), have become notable as invasive pests of Ficus species, with documented range expansions into Central and Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean region.

  invasive-speciespestFicusfigurbanMediterranean-expansionDNA-barcodingbiological-control

• Choreutis sexfasciella

  Banyan Leaf Skeletonizer Moth

  Choreutis sexfasciella is a small moth in the family Choreutidae, commonly known as the Banyan Leaf Skeletonizer Moth. First described from the Philippines in 1902, the species has undergone rapid range expansion in recent years, establishing populations across the Mediterranean region, North America, and other areas. It is strongly associated with Ficus host plants, particularly Ficus microcarpa and F. benjamina, in urban environments. The species has been identified as a non-native invasive with observable socioeconomic impacts in introduced ranges.

  invasive-speciesurban-pestFicus-pestleaf-skeletonizerrapid-range-expansionDNA-barcoding

• Chrysaster ostensackenella

  A small leaf-mining moth in the family Gracillariidae, native to eastern North America and recently established as an invasive pest in East Asia, Europe, and Russia. Adults have a wingspan of approximately 4–5 mm. Larvae feed exclusively on Robinia species, creating distinctive blotch mines on leaves. The species has spread rapidly through human-mediated transport of host plants and is expected to expand further in regions where black locust is planted.

  leaf-minerinvasive-speciespestGracillariidaeRobiniablack-locustNorth-American-originHolarctic-invasion

• Chrysodeixis

  Chrysodeixis is a genus of owlet moths (family Noctuidae, subfamily Plusiinae) described by Jacob Hübner in 1821. The genus contains approximately 30 described species distributed across the Americas, Asia, and Oceania. Several species are significant agricultural pests, particularly Chrysodeixis includens (soybean looper) and C. chalcites (tomato looper), which cause defoliation damage to legume and solanaceous crops. Larvae are characterized by having three pairs of prolegs and a distinctive looping locomotion.

  agricultural-pestsoybean-pestdefoliatorPlusiinaelooperinvasive-speciesinsecticide-resistance

• Chrysolina quadrigemina

  greater St. John's wort beetle, St. John's wort beetle

  Chrysolina quadrigemina is a leaf beetle introduced to North America as a biological control agent for the invasive weed Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort). Native to Europe and North Africa, this beetle has established populations across western North America and has been introduced to Australia. Adults and larvae feed exclusively on Hypericum species, with documented spillover onto native congeners such as H. punctatum in the eastern United States. The beetle exhibits a univoltine life cycle with adults active in summer, and shows evidence of post-colonization adaptation to colder climates in northern populations.

  biological-controlinvasive-speciesHypericumleaf-beetleChrysomelidaeclassical-biocontrolnon-target-effectspost-colonization-adaptationunivoltineaestivationvectorplant-pathogen

• Chrysomphalus aonidum

  Florida red scale, Egyptian black scale, circular black scale, citrus black scale

  Chrysomphalus aonidum is an armored scale insect (Diaspididae) and a significant pest of citrus and other fruit trees. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions but has established populations across six continents. The species forms a hard, protective scale cover over its body while feeding on plant phloem. Population densities can reach economically damaging levels in citrus orchards, with infestations recorded on leaves and fruit. The species is subject to biological control by parasitoid wasps and predatory beetles.

  armored-scalecitrus-pestDiaspididaebiological-controlinvasive-speciesphloem-feeder

• Chrysomya

  Old World blow fly

  Chrysomya is a genus of blow flies in the family Calliphoridae, native to the Old World. The genus is distinguished by metallic blue-green coloration, thick setae on the meron, and plumose arista. Several species have become forensically significant due to their predictable developmental rates and association with carrion, with some species recently expanding into North America.

  forensic-entomologyblow-flycarrionmyiasisdecompositionOld-Worldinvasive-speciespredatory-larvaemetallic-colorationmedico-criminal

• Chrysomya megacephala

  oriental latrine fly, oriental blue fly

  Chrysomya megacephala is a warm-weather blowfly with metallic blue-green coloration, notable for its forensic importance in estimating post-mortem intervals due to its rapid colonization of corpses. The species exhibits two distinct forms: a normal forest-dwelling form restricted to South Pacific Islands, and a synanthropic derived form that has spread globally from Papua New Guinea and is closely associated with human environments. It serves as a significant public health concern through its role in causing accidental myiasis and mechanically transmitting pathogens to human food.

  forensic-entomologyblowflymyiasiscarrioninvasive-speciessynanthropicpublic-health

• Chrysomya rufifacies

  hairy maggot blow fly, hairy maggot blowfly

  Chrysomya rufifacies is a blow fly native to Australasia and Southeast Asia that has become established across the Americas, Africa, and parts of Europe through human-mediated dispersal. It is one of the most forensically significant insects due to its highly predictable developmental timing and tendency to colonize human remains within minutes of death. The species exhibits facultative predation on other carrion-feeding larvae, which can alter postmortem succession patterns and confound time-of-death estimates. Adults are medium-sized with metallic blue-green coloration; larvae are distinguished by prominent fleshy tubercles that give the species its common name.

  forensic-entomologyblow-flycarrionmyiasisinvasive-speciescompetitionpredationpostmortem-intervalthermoregulationChrysomyinae

• Chymomyza

  Chymomyza is a genus of vinegar flies in the family Drosophilidae, containing approximately 60 described species distributed across multiple continents. Species within this genus exhibit diverse ecological specializations, including mycophagy (fungal spore feeding) and exploitation of damaged or parasitized fruits and nuts. Some species, such as C. amoena, have demonstrated invasive potential, establishing populations in Europe from North American origins. The genus is notable for complex male-male combat behaviors involving modified forelegs used as visual signals and physical weapons.

  mycophagyfungivorymale-combatforeleg-displayinvasive-speciesorchard-pestnut-breedingDrosophilidaevinegar-fly

• Chymomyza amoena

  A Nearctic drosophilid fruit fly native to eastern United States forests. It has established as an invasive species in Europe since its discovery in former Czechoslovakia in 1975, subsequently spreading to Switzerland, Italy, and German border regions. The species exhibits a distinctive ecological strategy: breeding in damaged or parasitized nuts and fruits rather than relying solely on fermenting substrates. This behavioral constancy for interspecies dependency—exploiting substrates pre-conditioned by other insects—has enabled it to occupy a vacant niche in European ecosystems.

  invasive-speciesfruit-flyvinegar-flyorchard-pestinterspecific-dependencyNearctic-originEuropeforestagriculturedrosophilidDipterabehavioral-constancyhost-shiftparasitized-fruitnut-breeder

• Cinara curvipes

  Bow-legged Fir Aphid

  Cinara curvipes is a large, black bark aphid native to North America that has become invasive in Central Europe since 2000. Adults measure 4.5–5.3 mm. The species exhibits remarkable life cycle flexibility, with populations capable of both holocyclic (sexual) and anholocyclic (parthenogenetic) reproduction. In its invaded range, it can form exceptionally large colonies of thousands of individuals by May—a phenomenon not observed in native European Cinara species. The aphid secretes copious honeydew throughout most of the year, supporting diverse insect communities.

  invasive-speciesaphidbark-aphidhoneydew-producerparthenogenesisholocyclicanholocyclicAbies-pestCentral-Europe-invasionclimate-change-adaptation

• Cinara pilicornis

  spruce shoot aphid, brown spruce shoot aphid

  Cinara pilicornis is a large aphid species specialized on spruce trees, particularly Norway spruce (Picea abies) and Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis). Native to Europe, it has been introduced to New Zealand and South Korea. The species produces melezitose, a trisaccharide sugar, and is associated with specific semiochemicals including nepetalactone compounds. It is attended by ants such as Formica polyctena and serves as a host for Entomophthora fungi, though it experiences low parasitism by the wasp Pauesia pini.

  aphidsprucePiceamelezitosenepetalactoneant-tendedEntomophthorainvasive-speciesEuropeNew-ZealandSouth-Korea

• Cis chinensis

  Cis chinensis is a minute beetle in the family Ciidae (minute tree-fungus beetles), first described from China in 1991. It has become established as an invasive species in Europe, with confirmed populations in Switzerland and Germany. The species is primarily known as a storage pest of commercially dried fungi, but wild populations have been found living on bracket fungi growing on trees in urban environments. Adults exhibit size plasticity in response to temperature, and the species serves as host for specialized parasitoids and phoretic mites.

  invasive-speciesCiidaefungus-beetlestorage-pestSwitzerlandBaselAntrodia-xanthaegg-parasitoidphoretic-mitestemperature-plasticityurban-entomology

• Clastoptera undulata

  Casuarina Spittlebug

  Clastoptera undulata is a spittlebug species in the family Clastopteridae, first described by Uhler in 1864. It is commonly known as the Casuarina Spittlebug. The species gained attention as an invasive pest in Bermuda, where it was discovered in 1959. Biological control efforts were undertaken using the parasitoid wasp Carabunia myersi. Most individuals in the Bermuda population overwinter as eggs. The species belongs to a group of xylem-feeding insects known for producing protective 'spittle' masses during their nymphal stages.

  HemipteraAuchenorrhynchaClastopteridaespittlebuginvasive-speciesbiological-controlBermudaxylem-feeder

• Cnestus

  ambrosia beetles

  Cnestus is a genus of ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae: Xyleborini) established by Sampson in 1911. Species in this genus are characterized by inbreeding reproduction through sib mating, cultivation of symbiotic ambrosia fungi as their sole nutritional source, and haplodiploid sex determination. The genus includes both native Asian species and invasive populations that have established in North America, Europe, and other regions. Cnestus mutilatus (camphor shot borer) is the most widely documented species, first reported in the United States in 1999 and subsequently detected in Europe. The genus exhibits complex evolutionary patterns, with some species containing cryptic sympatric lineages that are morphologically indistinguishable but genetically distinct.

  ambrosia-beetleinvasive-speciesfungal-symbiontinbreedinghaplodiploidWolbachiaforest-pestquarantine-pest

• Cnestus mutilatus

  camphor shot borer, camphor shoot borer, sweetgum ambrosia beetle

  Cnestus mutilatus is a large ambrosia beetle native to Asia that has been established as an invasive species in the United States since 1999. It is the largest ambrosia beetle species in North America, with females reaching 3.4–3.9 mm in length. The species carries a symbiotic fungus (Ambrosiella beaveri) that serves as the primary food source for adults and larvae. It has been documented damaging plastic fuel containers and lines due to attraction to ethanol in gasoline.

  ambrosia-beetleinvasive-speciesforest-pestethanol-attractionsymbiotic-fungus

• Coccidae

  soft scales, wax scales, tortoise scales

  Coccidae is a family of scale insects in the superfamily Coccoidea, commonly known as soft scales, wax scales, or tortoise scales. The family contains over 1,100 species in 171 genera worldwide. Females are typically flat with elongated oval bodies and smooth integument often covered with wax; they may possess legs in some genera but not in others. Males may be winged or wingless. Coccidae are distinguished from armored scales (Diaspididae) by their soft, waxy covering rather than a hard, separable scale. Many species are economically important agricultural and horticultural pests.

  scale-insectssoft-scalesagricultural-pestsphloem-feedersHemipteraSternorrhynchaCoccoideainvasive-speciesbiological-controlhoneydew-producersornamental-pestsforest-pestsfruit-tree-pests

• Coccinella septempunctata

  seven-spot ladybird, seven-spotted ladybug, seven-spotted lady beetle, C-7

  Coccinella septempunctata is a predatory lady beetle native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, now widely established in North America following intentional introduction for biological control. Adults measure 6.5–7.8 mm with distinctive red elytra bearing seven black spots. The species is among the most extensively studied coccinellids due to its importance in aphid biocontrol and its invasive success in new ranges. It completes up to five generations annually with a six-week development cycle from egg to adult.

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California-hostSeven-spotted-Lady-Beetle-Colorado-hostbraconid-wasp-global-distributionnon-specific-host-utilizationlarger-host-preferenceagricultural-biological-control-concernAl-Abassi-Birkett-Pettersson-Pickett-Wadhams-Woodcock-2001toxic-alkaloid-response-studyJournal-Chemical-Ecology-publicationLynette-Schimming-Bugguide.net-2009Dinocampus-coccinellae-species-accountMargarethe-Brummermann-Flagstaff-observationShanda-autumn-bite-experienceShelly-Cox-cooler-wetter-reductionhusband-bug-spray-annoyancenative-species-decline-concernthree-species-photographic-documentation9-spotted-elusive-searchEric-Eaton-series-appreciationJosh-Cassidy-wildlife-biology-backgroundSan-Francisco-State-Montana-State-filmmakingDeep-Look-long-term-team-membershipIan-Grettenberger-Western-Washington-biologyPennsylvania-State-entomology-doctoratePests-Natural-Enemies-YouTube-channellady-beetle-larva-aphid-predation-videoscoop-chomp-behavioral-descriptionpea-aphid-alfalfa-legume-pestslowed-50%-predation-visualizationJohn-P.-Roche-science-communicationHoly-Cross-adjunct-professorshipScience-View-Productions-direction200-article-publication-recordMichaud-limb-regeneration-researchAnnals-Entomological-Society-Americainvasive-success-trait-correlationecological-dominance-regeneration-associationgenotype-invasion-difference-documentationpleiotropic-effects-developmental-genescascading-gene-expression-effectswalking-stick-direct-selection-contrastlady-beetle-predation-survival-binaryfuture-taxonomic-expansion-researchScymninae-missing-taxaChilocorinae-scale-feeders-untestedPsylloborini-fungi-feeders-untestedLeslie-Mertz-northern-Michigan-residenceknowyourinsects.org-educational-websitesummer-field-biology-teachingHelen-Roy-six-year-old-1976-memoryIsle-of-Wight-garden-observationladybird-imagination-capturedoctoral-research-privilege2004-harlequin-arrival-anticipationCambridge-sabbatical-ecological-network-insight80-90%-urban-dominance-currentHesperomyces-virescens-native-two-spotted-observationdoctoral-student-Katie-Murray-discoverycontact-point-transmission-evidenceoverwintering-aggregation-months-durationfield-cross-species-transmission-absence-assertionMurray-health-effects-investigationHaelewaters-three-lineage-hypothesisScientific-Reports-publication-venueDinocampus-coccinellae-seven-spot-targetingcocoon-between-legs-observationevolutionary-action-research-excitementcitizen-science-online-mappingthousands-of-participants-contributionverified-record-quantity-reportingScientific-Data-Nature-journal-publicationharlequin-spread-pattern-documentationnative-species-decline-correlationanecdotal-increase-personal-observationseven-spot-Dinocampus-tracking-expansionsuper-abundant-resource-wasp-predictionparasite-pathogen-invaded-system-evolutionLeslie-Mertz-authorship-biologist-educatorBug-Eric-zombie-ladybug-narrativebraconid-wasp-bizarre-biologyNational-Geographic-website-articleovipositor-single-egg-depositionDcPV-virus-additional-depositlarval-replication-sitepupal-readiness-host-exitnervous-system-paralysis-migrationperiodic-twitching-virus-triggertoxic-alkaloid-body-defensevolatile-compound-parasitoid-attractionColorado-Springs-tomato-leaf-discoveryornamental-grass-nursery-discoveryRyan-Nefcy-Facebook-friend-rearingminiscule-wasp-size-description100-mph-movement-frustrationAugust-12-collection-August-21-emergenceone-third-recovery-ratefemale-targeting-parasitoid-preferencesterilization-agricultural-impact-concernEric-Eaton-blog-maintenance-noteMargarethe-Brummermann-Flagstaff-meadow-parallelcoded-protection-copy-frustrationreader-comment-engagementNovember-6-garage-door-querybeetle-recovery-adviceMarch-11-2025-braconidae-virus-integration-commenttwice-occurrence-coincidence-observationbracovirus-integration-comparisonless-integrated-DcPV-speculationnewer-older-post-navigationAtom-comment-subscriptionEric-Eaton-2009-indoor-insects-seriesHarmonia-axyridis-Halloween-designationOctober-abundance-patternbrown-marmorated-stink-bug-parallelrepeated-introduction-history1916-California-1988-New-Orleansaccidental-planned-introduction-uncertaintyrange-expansion-current-statusvariable-color-pattern-identification-challengeeighteen-nineteen-spot-typicalorange-spotless-black-two-spot-extremesnative-species-confusion-potentialsheer-abundance-identification-cluecircumstantial-displacement-evidenceC-7-greater-displacement-suggestionindoor-overwintering-nuisance-behaviorstate-agriculture-extension-call-volumeno-agency-fault-clarificationnuisance-pest-odor-stainno-indoor-breeding-feeding-factfat-reserve-winter-metabolismpersistent-bite-report-curiosity-explanationinvestigation-behavior-not-attackreflex-bleeding-defense-mechanismyellow-fluid-knee-joint-secretionawful-smell-stain-potentialprevention-weatherstripping-screening-sealingvacuum-release-outdoor-relocationwoodpile-sheltered-situation-suggestionpale-color-attraction-evidenceShanda-warm-sunny-day-bite-experienceair-filled-flying-behaviorland-bite-aggravation-characterizationstorage-area-height-prefer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integration-comparison-analyticalless-integrated-DcPV-speculation-tentativenewer-older-post-navigation-interfaceAtom-comment-subscription-technicalEric-Eaton-2009-indoor-insects-series-contextHarmonia-axyridis-Halloween-designation-seasonalOctober-abundance-pattern-temporalbrown-marmorated-stink-bug-parallel-invasiverepeated-introduction-history-1916-1988accidental-planned-introduction-uncertainty-debaterange-expansion-current-status-widespreadvariable-color-pattern-identification-challenge-diagnosticeighteen-nineteen-spot-typical-rangeorange-spotless-black-two-spot-extremes-variationnative-species-confusion-potential-misidentificationsheer-abundance-identification-clue-diagnosticcircumstantial-displacement-evidence-suggestiveC-7-greater-displacement-suggestion-comparativeindoor-overwintering-nuisance-behavior-seasonalstate-agriculture-extension-call-volume-impactno-agency-fault-clarification-responsibilitynuisance-pest-odor-stain-characteristicno-indoor-breeding-feeding-fact-biologicalfat-reserve-winter-metabolism-physiologicalpersistent-bite-report-curiosity-explanation-behavioralinvestigation-behavior-not-attack-motivationreflex-bleeding-defense-mechanism-chemicalyellow-fluid-knee-joint-secretion-anatomicalawful-smell-stain-potential-chemical-propertyprevention-weatherstripping-screening-sealing-practicalvacuum-release-outdoor-relocation-managementwoodpile-sheltered-situation-suggestion-habitatpale-color-attraction-evidence-visualwhite-gray-yellow-building-preference-chromaticShanda-warm-sunny-day-bite-experience-anecdotalair-filled-flying-behavior-descriptiveland-bite-aggravation-characterization-subjectivestorage-area-height-preference-observation-anecdotalShelly-Cox-cooler-wetter-year-reduction-correlationhusband-bug-spray-intolerance-contrast-humorousLost-Ladybug-Project-participation-mention-citizen-sciencenative-species-down-data-anticipation-concernthree-species-frequency-order-observationalmulticolored-Asian-seven-spotted-polished-abundance-ranking9-spotted-elusive-ongoing-search-rarityEric-Eaton-series-value-appreciation-feedbackJosh-Cassidy-award-notification-recognitionDeep-Look-nature-Oscar-equivalent-metaphoranimal-behavior-short-form-first-place-achievementinnovative-illuminating-judging-criteria-qualitative750-entries-30-countries-competition-scale150-member-judging-team-compositionSeptember-30-ceremony-announcement-dateGrettenberger-garden-aphid-abundance-filming-locationCOVID-garage-filming-adaptation-pandemicGrettenberger-parasitoid-development-footage-contributionYouTube-comment-praise-selection-socialphenomenal-channel-epic-biologically-significant-acclaimwildlife-biology-Ohio-University-background-educationmarine-mammal-research-pursuit-prior-interestscience-natural-history-filmmaking-training-specializationDeep-Look-team-long-term-membership-careerexcellent-work-innovative-fascinating-reputation-professionalWestern-Washington-biology-bachelor-educationPennsylvania-State-entomology-doctorate-educationJanuary-2019-UC-Davis-faculty-employmentfield-vegetable-crop-focus-researchintegrated-pest-management-application-extensionapplied-insect-ecology-emphasis-academicbiological-control-pest-emphasis-researchPests-Natural-Enemies-YouTube-administration-outreachlady-beetle-larva-aphid-predation-popular-contentscoop-chomp-behavioral-description-vivid50%-speed-predation-visualization-technicalpea-aphid-alfalfa-legume-crop-pest-economicJohn-P.-Roche-science-communication-career-professionalauthor-biologist-educator-identity-multi-roleScience-View-Productions-direction-enterpriseHoly-Cross-adjunct-professorship-academic200-article-publication-record-productivityrigorous-science-clear-accessible-dedication-philosophyMichaud-limb-regeneration-research-leadership-academicKansas-State-entomology-professorship-employmentAugust-Annals-publication-datecomplete-metamorphosis-pupal-stage-focus-developmentalLimb-Regeneration-Index-creation-methodology0-1-scale-full-regeneration-indication-metricevolutionary-relatedness-calculation-phylogeneticC.-septempunctata-H.-axyridis-highest-regeneration-observationvirtually-every-species-some-capacity-generalityevolutionary-distance-LRI-difference-trend-patternpupal-development-delay-common-cost-physiologicalnine-of-fourteen-species-significant-statisticalinvasive-wide-range-high-LRI-correlationNorth-American-invasive-20%-higher-than-China-quantitativeHippodamia-variegata-Czech-Egypt-difference-geographicecology-key-factor-conclusion-interpretationinvasive-biologically-different-from-ancestral-evolutionaryaggressive-traits-robust-competitiveness-characteristicecological-dominance-shared-characteristics-traitgenotype-invasion-difference-support-evidencepleiotropy-hypothesis-preference-theoreticaldirect-selection-unlikely-explanation-theoreticalwalking-stick-direct-selection-contrast-comparativelady-beetle-predation-survival-binary-outcome-behaviorallimb-damage-rarity-predation-context-ecologicaldevelopmental-gene-pathway-importance-geneticpupal-activation-gene-upregulation-molecularcascading-gene-expression-effects-downstreamother-traits-selective-advantage-pleiotropyfuture-research-taxonomic-expansion-recommendationScymninae-missing-family-subfamily-taxonomicChilocorinae-scale-feeders-missing-taxonomicPsylloborini-fungi-feeders-missing-taxonomicintriguing-future-research-possibilities-opportunityinvasive-species-ecological-role-insight-applicationbiological-control-agent-understanding-practicalLeslie-Mertz-northern-Michigan-residence-personalknowyourinsects.org-educational-resource-outreachsummer-field-biology-teaching-activity-educationalHelen-Roy-childhood-1976-memory-personalIsle-of-Wight-garden-ladybird-abundance-biogeographicimagination-capture-interest-spark-developmentaldoctoral-research-privilege-description-professionalCambridge-sabbatical-2004-harlequin-anticipation-predictiveecological-network-upset-prediction-correctness-validation80-90%-urban-dominance-current-status-quantitativeHesperomyces-virescens-native-two-spotted-prior-observation-historicalKatie-Murray-doctoral-student-discovery-contributionmarathon-mating-hour-duration-description-behavioralcontact-point-fruiting-body-location-evidence-morphologicaloverwintering-aggregation-months-duration-behavioralfield-cross-species-transmission-absence-assertion-ecologicalMurray-health-effects-investigation-ongoing-researchHaelewaters-Harvard-lineage-study-institutionalthree-separate-lineages-hypothesis-taxonomicScientific-Reports-publication-venue-academicDinocampus-coccinellae-seven-spot-targeting-expansion-ecologicalcocoon-between-legs-observation-detail-morphologicalevolutionary-action-research-excitement-expression-enthusiasmcitizen-science-online-mapping-project-methodologythousands-of-participants-contribution-scale-participatoryverified-record-quantity-reporting-pride-achievementScientific-Data-Nature-journal-publication-academicharlequin-spread-pattern-documentation-spatialnative-species-decline-correlation-data-ecologicalanecdotal-increase-personal-observation-note-qualitativeseven-spot-Dinocampus-tracking-expansion-plan-futuresuper-abundant-resource-wasp-prediction-ecologicalparasite-pathogen-invaded-system-evolution-opportunity-research

• Coccoidea

  Scale Insects

  Scale insects are small sap-sucking hemipterans comprising the superfamily Coccoidea, with approximately 8,000 described species across about 49 families. They exhibit extraordinary morphological diversity, ranging from minute forms beneath waxy covers to conspicuous species with elaborate wax secretions. Many are economically significant agricultural and horticultural pests, while others serve as sources of valuable products such as carmine dye and shellac. The group has been extensively studied for biological control, with numerous parasitoid wasp species developed as management agents.

  phloem-feederwax-secretionagricultural-pestbiological-controlinvasive-speciesmutualism-with-antshoneydew-producereconomic-insect-product

• Coccotrypes

  Coccotrypes is a genus of bark beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae) comprising approximately 130 described species. The genus is notable for its specialized seed-boring habits, with several species developing entirely within seeds or propagules of host plants. Coccotrypes dactyliperda (date stone beetle) and C. rhizophorae are economically significant pests of date palms and mangroves respectively, having achieved cosmopolitan distributions through human-mediated dispersal of host plant material.

  bark-beetleseed-borerpestdate-palmmangroveScolytinaecryptic-lifestylespermatophagousinvasive-species

• Coccus viridis

  green scale, green coffee scale, coffee green scale

  Coccus viridis is a soft scale insect (Hemiptera: Coccidae) and major agricultural pest with a wide tropical and subtropical distribution. It reproduces parthenogenetically via thelytoky, with females producing 50-600 eggs that hatch within minutes to hours beneath the mother's body. The species completes its life cycle in 47-51 days at 25°C, with three nymphal instars before adulthood; first-instar nymphs actively disperse as 'crawlers' while older instars and adults become sessile. It is polyphagous, feeding on phloem sap of over 200 plant genera in 72 families, with primary economic damage to coffee, guava, and cacao crops.

  agricultural-pestcoffee-pestsoft-scaleparthenogenesisthelytokypolyphagyant-mutualismhoneydewsooty-moldbiological-controlinvasive-speciestropical-pestphloem-feederHemipteraCoccidaeCoccusgreen-scalegreen-coffee-scale

• Cochliomyia

  New World screwworm flies, screwworm flies

  Cochliomyia is a genus of blowflies (family Calliphoridae) comprising four species: C. macellaria, C. hominivorax, C. aldrichi, and C. minima. The genus is commonly known as New World screwworm flies, distinguished from Old World screwworms. C. hominivorax, the primary screwworm, is an obligate parasite whose larvae feed on living tissue, causing severe myiasis in livestock, wildlife, and humans. C. macellaria, the secondary screwworm, feeds only on necrotic tissue and carrion. The primary screwworm has been eradicated from North America through the sterile insect technique, though it persists in parts of Central and South America.

  blowflymyiasisscrewwormlivestock-pestforensic-entomologysterile-insect-techniqueparasiteveterinary-entomologyinvasive-specieseradication-program

• Cochliomyia hominivorax

  New World screwworm fly, New World screwworm, screwworm, screw-worm

  Cochliomyia hominivorax, the New World screwworm fly, is an obligate parasitic blowfly whose larvae feed exclusively on living tissue of warm-blooded vertebrates. It is the only parasitic species in its genus; other Cochliomyia species are facultative parasites or carrion feeders. The species was eradicated from the United States, Central America, and much of the Caribbean through the sterile insect technique beginning in the 1950s, though it persists in tropical and subtropical South America and portions of the Caribbean. A 2016 outbreak in the Florida Keys was successfully eliminated, but detections in southern Mexico in 2024–2025 triggered renewed eradication efforts and trade restrictions.

  obligate-parasitemyiasislivestock-pesteradicationsterile-insect-techniqueveterinary-entomologyinvasive-specieseconomic-pest

• Coleophora laricella

  Larch Casebearer Moth, Western Larch Case-bearer

  Coleophora laricella is a case-bearing moth native to Central and Northern Europe, where it feeds on European larch (Larix decidua). Introduced to North America in the mid-19th century, it has become a significant invasive pest of Larix species, particularly western larch (L. occidentalis) and tamarack (L. laricina). The species produces one generation annually, with larvae that mine inside larch needles and construct portable cases from hollowed-out foliage. Severe infestations can reduce annual tree growth by 97% after five years, causing substantial economic losses and increasing host susceptibility to secondary pests and diseases.

  invasive-speciesforest-pestcase-bearing-mothlarch-specialistbiological-control-subjectpheromone-research

• Compsilura

  Compsilura is a genus of tachinid flies (Diptera: Tachinidae) established by Bouché in 1834. The genus includes several species, with Compsilura concinnata being the most extensively studied due to its historical use as a biological control agent. Species in this genus are parasitoids of Lepidoptera larvae and have been introduced to multiple continents for pest management. The genus has been implicated in unintended ecological impacts, particularly C. concinnata's role in declines of native silk moth populations in North America.

  parasitoidtachinidbiological-controlinvasive-speciesLepidoptera-parasitegeneralist-parasitoid

• Compsilura concinnata

  European Tachinid Fly

  Compsilura concinnata is a polyphagous tachinid fly native to Europe that was introduced to North America in 1906 as a biological control agent for the spongy moth (Lymantria dispar). It is an endoparasitoid of insect larvae, developing within the host midgut and eventually killing it. The species attacks over 200 host species across Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and Hymenoptera, but has proven ineffective against its intended target while causing significant non-target impacts on native Lepidoptera, including giant silk moths and monarch butterflies.

  biological-controlinvasive-speciesparasitoidnon-target-effectstachinidforest-entomologyconservation-concernmultivoltineovoviviparousgeneralist-parasitoidLepidoptera-declinetritrophic-interactions

• Contarinia

  Gall midges

  Contarinia is a genus of gall midges (Cecidomyiidae) containing over 300 described species. Adults are small, delicate flies with hairy wings, long antennae, and distinctive wing venation including an interrupted costal vein. The genus includes numerous agricultural pests whose larvae induce galls or feed on meristematic tissues of plants, particularly in the Brassicaceae, Poaceae, and other families. Several species cause significant economic damage to crops including sorghum, canola, citrus, and stone fruits.

  agricultural-pestgall-midgeBrassicaceae-pestsorghum-pestinvasive-speciesintegrated-pest-management

• Coptodisca juglandiella

  Walnut Shield-bearer

  Coptodisca juglandiella is a Nearctic leafminer moth in the family Heliozelidae, first described by Chambers in 1874. Native to North America, it was discovered in Hungary in 2019 as a new invasive species for Europe. The larvae feed internally on walnut leaves, creating distinctive blotch mines. Unlike its congener C. lucifluella, it has not undergone a host plant shift since introduction to Europe.

  leafminerinvasive-specieswalnut-pestHeliozelidaeNearctic-originEuropeHungaryJuglansthree-generationsno-host-shift

• Coptodisca lucifluella

  walnut shield bearer

  Coptodisca lucifluella is a small leaf-mining moth in the family Heliozelidae, native to eastern North America and invasive in Europe since 2010. Larvae create distinctive blotch-shaped mines on walnut and hickory foliage, then construct oval silk-attached cases for pupation. The species has undergone a documented host shift in Europe, expanding from its native specialization on Carya (pecan) to primarily exploiting Juglans regia (common walnut) and occasionally other Juglandaceae. It completes 3–4 generations annually in Italy, with autumn generations producing substantially more mines than spring generations.

  leaf-minerinvasive-specieswalnut-pestHeliozelidaemultivoltinehost-shiftNearctic-originagricultural-pestblotch-minecase-making-larva

• Coptotermes

  Coptotermes is a genus of subterranean termites in the family Rhinotermitidae, containing approximately 71 described species. The genus is thought to have originated in Southeast Asia and includes some of the world's most economically destructive termite pests, notably Coptotermes formosanus (Formosan subterranean termite) and C. gestroi (Asian subterranean termite). A 2013 consensus among 31 termite experts reduced the number of validated species from 69 to 21 based on morphological and molecular evidence, with many historical names suspected to be synonyms. Species in this genus exhibit complex social behaviors including age-based task division and unique nitrogen recycling strategies.

  termitepestinvasivestructural-pestsubterraneanRhinotermitidaeHeterotermitidaeeconomic-pesturban-entomologycolonysocial-insectmoltingnitrogen-recyclingexuviaeage-polyethismFormosan-subterranean-termiteAsian-subterranean-termiteSoutheast-Asia-originwood-feedingcellulosegut-protozoalower-termiteevolutionary-transitiontunnelingforagingtrophallaxisproctodeal-trophallaxiscarton-nestAhamitermesparasitechitin-synthesis-inhibitorCSI-baitmolting-site-fidelityinvasive-speciesurban-peststructural-damagequarantineshippingrailroad-tiesmulchHawaiiFloridaLouisianaTaiwanJapanChinaPhilippinesAustraliatemperature-limitationhumidity-requirementcolony-sizeseveral-millionalatesswarmingnematode-associationvertical-transfermorphological-plasticitymolecular-identificationmitochondrial-DNACOII12S-rRNA16S-rRNAconsortium-taxonomytaxonomic-cold-casesynonymyWasmann-1896

• Coptotermes formosanus

  Formosan subterranean termite

  Coptotermes formosanus, the Formosan subterranean termite, is a highly destructive invasive termite species native to southern China and Taiwan. It has spread worldwide through human transport, particularly via shipping, and is now established in the southern United States, Hawaii, Japan, and other regions. Colonies can contain millions of individuals with foraging ranges up to 100 meters. The species exhibits complex social behaviors including age-based task division, central nest molting, and nitrogen recycling through exuviae consumption.

  invasive-speciespestsubterranean-termitenitrogen-recyclingsocial-insectwood-feeding

• Corythucha

  lace bugs

  Corythucha is a large genus of lace bugs (family Tingidae) comprising approximately 75 described species, primarily distributed in the northern hemisphere including North America, Europe, and eastern Asia. Members of this genus are small, sap-sucking true bugs characterized by their distinctive reticulated, lace-like forewings and pronotal expansions. Several species are economically significant pests of ornamental and crop plants, including the sycamore lace bug (C. ciliata), oak lace bug (C. arcuata), cotton or bean lace bug (C. gossypii), and chrysanthemum lace bug (C. marmorata). Some species exhibit notable behavioral traits such as maternal care (C. hewitti). The genus has been subject to extensive invasion biology research due to the rapid spread of several species through human-mediated transport and natural dispersal.

  lace-bugTingidaeinvasive-speciesforest-pesturban-pestphloem-feederhost-specialistoak-pestsycamore-pestornamental-pestHemipteratrue-bug

• Corythucha arcuata

  oak lace bug

  Corythucha arcuata, the oak lace bug, is a small sap-sucking insect in the family Tingidae native to North America. First detected in Europe in 2000, it has become a major invasive pest across more than 20 EU countries, causing significant damage to oak forests. The species overwinters as adults and produces multiple overlapping generations per year, with development rates and generation number determined by thermal accumulation. In its invaded range, it lacks effective natural enemies, prompting investigation of classical biological control using the egg parasitoid Erythmelus klopomor from its native range.

  invasive-speciesforest-pestoakTingidaebiological-controlclimate-changeEuropeNorth-America

• Corythucha ciliata

  sycamore lace bug, plane lace bug, Eastern Sycamore Lace Bug

  Corythucha ciliata, the sycamore lace bug, is a small sap-sucking insect native to North America that has become a globally invasive pest of plane trees (Platanus spp.). Adults are milky white, 3.2–3.7 mm long, with distinctive lacy, reticulate wings. The species was first detected in Europe in 1964 in Italy and has since spread to over three dozen countries across Europe, Asia, and Oceania. It feeds exclusively on the undersides of leaves, causing chlorotic stippling, premature leaf drop, and tree weakening. In Europe, it has been reported to bite humans and cause dermatological reactions.

  invasive-speciesurban-pestplant-pestTingidaelace-bugPlatanussycamoreplane-treesap-suckingNorth-America-nativeEurope-invasiveAsia-invasivemultiple-generationsoverwintering-adulthuman-biting-reported

• Corythucha marmorata

  Chrysanthemum Lace Bug

  Corythucha marmorata is a small lace bug (Hemiptera: Tingidae) native to North and Central America that has become invasive in East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. Adults measure 2.77–3.28 mm and display a brown-white marbled coloration with the reticulated wings characteristic of the family. The species is a phytophagous pest specializing on Asteraceae, with documented hosts including Helianthus tuberosus, Solidago canadensis, and numerous weedy asters. It overwinters as adults, showing chill-susceptible cold hardiness with female adults demonstrating greater supercooling capacity than males.

  invasive-speciespestAsteraceaecold-hardinesspheromonelace-bugoverwinteringedge-effecturban-ecology

• Crambidae

  Crambid Snout Moths, grass moths

  Crambidae is a large family of Lepidoptera comprising over 10,000 species in more than 1,000 genera across 15 subfamilies. The family includes economically significant agricultural pests such as the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis), sod webworms (Crambus spp.), and the invasive box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis). Historically treated as a subfamily of Pyralidae, Crambidae was elevated to full family status based on the presence of a praecinctorium—a structure joining two tympanic membranes absent in Pyralidae. Members exhibit diverse morphologies: Crambinae (grass moths) are slender with wings folded tightly around the body at rest, while other subfamilies display bright coloration and rest with wings spread.

  grass-mothsnout-mothagricultural-peststem-borerbiocontrolaquatic-mothinvasive-speciescorn-pestrice-pestsugarcane-pest

• Crioceris

  asparagus beetle

  Crioceris is a genus of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) commonly known as asparagus beetles. The genus includes both widespread agricultural pests and rare species restricted to specialized habitats. Several species are associated with Asparagus host plants, with C. asparagi and C. duodecimpunctata being notable invasive pests. Other species such as C. quinquepunctata and C. quatuordecimpunctata are rare and occupy steppe-like habitats in Eurasia. The genus has been subject to molecular barcoding studies to distinguish closely related species.

  Chrysomelidaeleaf-beetleasparagus-pestinvasive-speciessteppe-habitatmolecular-barcodingWolbachiabiological-controlgenome-sequenced

• Crioceris asparagi

  Common Asparagus Beetle

  Crioceris asparagi, the common asparagus beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Native to Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia and Siberia, it has been introduced to North America where it is a significant pest of cultivated asparagus. Both adults and larvae feed externally on leaves and stems of Asparagus species. The beetle is notable for its distinctive appearance: metallic blue-black with cream or yellow spots on red-bordered elytra, and for its specialized egg attachment mechanism that allows eggs to adhere to the anti-adhesive crystalline waxy surface of host plants.

  pestagriculturalleaf-beetlespecialist-herbivoreinvasive-species

• Crypticerya

  fluted scales, channeled mealybugs

  Crypticerya is a genus of giant scale insects in the family Monophlebidae, comprising 28 described species as of 2024. All species are native to the Americas. The genus was established by Cockerell in 1895 as a subgenus of Icerya, elevated to genus rank in 1899, synonymized in 1926, and revived in 2008. Species in this genus are commonly known as "fluted scales" or "channeled mealybugs" due to the longitudinal grooves or channels present on the ovisacs of species that produce them. Many species are significant agricultural and urban pests.

  scale-insectpestagricultural-pesturban-pestinvasive-speciesNew-Worldphloem-feedersooty-mold-vector

• Crypticerya genistae

  Genista Giant Scale Insect, fluted scale, channeled mealybug

  Crypticerya genistae is a giant scale insect in the tribe Iceryini, native to South America and accidentally introduced to Florida by 2005, the Cayman Islands by 2006, Ecuador, and Peru. Adult females produce a distinctive large white fluted ovisac measuring 17–19 mm. The species has been recorded on at least eleven host plant species, primarily in the family Fabaceae, and appears to prefer herbaceous plants and shrubs over trees. It is considered an invasive pest in urban green areas and poses potential phytosanitary risks to agricultural crops including Cajanus cajan (pigeon pea).

  scale-insectinvasive-speciespestphloem-feederFabaceaeurban-pestagricultural-pestfluted-scalechanneled-mealybuggiant-scale-insectSouth-America-nativeintroduced-to-North-Americaintroduced-to-Caribbean

• Cryptococcus fagisuga

  beech scale, woolly beech scale

  Cryptococcus fagisuga is a felted scale insect and the initiating agent of beech bark disease, a complex disease affecting beech trees (Fagus spp.). Native to Europe, it was introduced to North America around 1890 and has since spread throughout the range of American beech. The insect feeds on phloem sap by inserting stylets into bark tissue, creating wounds that enable secondary infection by pathogenic Neonectria fungi. The combined damage from scale feeding and fungal cankers can girdle and kill trees over several years.

  invasive-speciesforest-pestparthenogeneticscale-insectbeech-bark-diseasefelted-scalephloem-feederpathogen-vector