Pest

Guides

Phyllophaga cribrosa
Ribbed Phyllophaga
Phyllophaga cribrosa is a flightless scarab beetle in the subfamily Melolonthinae, distinguished from most congeners by its diurnal, ground-dwelling habits. Adults are recognized by their oval, convex, shining black bodies with a distinctive cribrose (sieve-like) surface texture and longitudinal elytral furrows. The species occurs in dry habitats across the south-central United States and northern Mexico, where it has been documented as an occasional agricultural pest.
flightless diurnal grassland pest convergent-evolution
Phyllophaga obsoleta vanelleri
Phyllophaga obsoleta vanelleri is a subspecies of May beetle within the scarab genus Phyllophaga. The genus Phyllophaga comprises scarab beetle larvae commonly known as 'white grubs,' which are significant agricultural and horticultural pests. This subspecies is part of a complex of Phyllophaga species that serve as hosts for parasitoid wasps including Pelecinus polyturator and Myzinum species.
scarabaeidae melolonthinae phyllophaga white-grub may-beetle scarab-beetle pest parasitoid-host
Phyllotreta striolata
Striped Flea Beetle, Turnip Flea Beetle
Phyllotreta striolata is a small flea beetle (1.5–2.5 mm) in the family Chrysomelidae, native to Eurasia and now distributed worldwide. It is a major pest of Brassicaceae crops, causing substantial yield losses through adult feeding on aboveground plant parts and larval feeding on roots. The species exhibits strong positive phototaxis with peak sensitivity to blue wavelengths (350–430 nm). It has been recorded from diverse habitats including open prairie, boreal forest, and agricultural systems across North America, Europe, and Asia.
pest agricultural coleoptera chrysomelidae brassicaceae flea-beetle invasive biological-control-target insecticide-resistance
Phylloxera caryaegummosa
pecan phylloxera
Phylloxera caryaegummosa is a tiny, soft-bodied insect in the family Phylloxeridae, closely related to aphids. It is a significant pest of pecan (Carya illinoinensis), causing galls to form on shoots and nuts. This species is considered more damaging than pecan leaf phylloxera (Phylloxera notabilis), which affects only leaves. Heavy infestations can reduce yield, impair tree vitality, and curtail subsequent production. The insect has a complex life cycle involving multiple generations and forms, with winter survival as eggs protected within the bodies of dead females.
pest gall-former pecan agricultural phylloxeridae hemiptera
Phylloxera caryaemagna
pecan phylloxera
Phylloxera caryaemagna, commonly known as the pecan phylloxera, is a tiny, soft-bodied insect closely related to aphids and a significant pest of pecan trees (Carya illinoinensis). This species is considered the most damaging of the two primary phylloxera species attacking pecans, as it attacks shoots and developing nuts rather than just leaves. The insect induces the formation of galls on new growth through chemical secretions that stimulate abnormal plant tissue development. Widespread infestations can reduce current-year yield, impair tree vitality, and curtail subsequent production. Management requires precisely timed insecticide applications targeting the vulnerable nymph stage before gall formation encloses and protects the insects.
pest gall-former phloem-feeder pecan-pest economic-pest
Phylloxera caryaeren
pecan phylloxera, pecan stem phylloxera
Phylloxera caryaeren is a small, soft-bodied, gall-forming insect closely related to aphids that attacks pecan trees (Carya illinoinensis). It is considered the most damaging phylloxera species on pecans because it attacks shoots and developing nuts, unlike the pecan leaf phylloxera which only affects foliage. Heavy infestations can reduce current-year yield, impair tree vitality, and reduce production in subsequent years. The insect is sedentary and cannot fly long distances, so infestations spread slowly from tree to tree.
pest gall-former pecan agricultural Hemiptera Sternorrhyncha monophagous single-generation Texas
Phylloxera caryaesemen
pecan phylloxera, pecan nut phylloxera
Phylloxera caryaesemen is a small, soft-bodied, gall-forming insect closely related to aphids that attacks pecan trees (Carya illinoinensis). It is considered the most damaging phylloxera species on pecans because it attacks shoots and developing nuts, unlike the related pecan leaf phylloxera which feeds only on leaves. Heavy infestations can reduce current-year yield, impair tree vitality, and diminish subsequent production. The insect induces abnormal plant growths (galls) by secreting substances that stimulate tissue development, with nymphs completing development inside these protective structures.
pest gall-former pecan agriculture Hemiptera Phylloxeridae
Phylloxera caryaesepta
pecan leaf phylloxera, pecan phylloxera
Phylloxera caryaesepta is a tiny, soft-bodied insect in the family Phylloxeridae, closely related to aphids. It is a significant pest of pecan trees (Carya illinoinensis), forming conspicuous galls on leaves, twigs, and nuts. The species survives winter as eggs in bark crevices, with nymphs emerging during spring bud break to feed on new growth. Unlike the related pecan leaf phylloxera (Phylloxera notabilis) which attacks only leaves, P. caryaesepta damages shoots and nuts, making it more economically destructive. Heavy infestations can reduce yield, impair tree vitality, and curtail subsequent production.
pest gall-former pecan agriculture Hemiptera Phylloxeridae integrated-pest-management
Phylloxera deplanata
pecan leaf phylloxera, pecan phylloxera
Phylloxera deplanata is a tiny, soft-bodied insect in the family Phylloxeridae, closely related to aphids. It is a significant pest of pecan trees (Carya illinoinensis), causing the formation of galls on leaves, shoots, and nuts. The species overwinters as eggs in bark crevices and emerges in spring to feed on new growth, inducing abnormal plant tissue development. Unlike the pecan leaf phylloxera (which forms galls on leaves only), this species attacks shoots and nuts, making it more economically damaging. Heavy infestations can reduce yield, impair tree vitality, and diminish subsequent production.
phylloxera pecan gall pest agriculture Sternorrhyncha Carya economic-pest integrated-pest-management IPM orchard-pest
Phylloxera devastatrix
pecan phylloxera
Phylloxera devastatrix, commonly known as the pecan phylloxera, is a gall-forming insect closely related to aphids that infests pecan trees (Carya illinoinensis). It is considered the most damaging phylloxera species attacking pecans because it attacks shoots and nuts, whereas the related pecan leaf phylloxera (Phylloxera notabilis) forms galls only on leaves. Heavy infestations reduce yield, impair tree vitality, and curtail subsequent production. The insect's galls also serve as an alternate host for hickory shuckworm (Cydia caryana) larvae.
pest gall-former agricultural pecan cecidogenic
Phylloxera perniciosa
pecan phylloxera
Phylloxera perniciosa, commonly known as the pecan phylloxera, is a gall-forming insect that attacks shoots and nuts of pecan trees (Carya illinoinensis). It is considered the most damaging phylloxera species affecting pecans, causing galls that reduce yield, impair tree vitality, and curtail subsequent production. The insect is closely related to aphids and survives winter as eggs in bark crevices. Unlike the pecan leaf phylloxera, which only forms galls on leaves, this species attacks reproductive and vegetative shoots, making it economically significant in commercial pecan production.
gall-forming pest pecan agricultural Hemiptera Phylloxeridae
Phylloxera rimosalis
pecan leaf phylloxera
Phylloxera rimosalis is a tiny, soft-bodied insect closely related to aphids that forms galls exclusively on pecan leaves. It is one of two economically important phylloxera species attacking pecans, the other being the more damaging pecan phylloxera (Phylloxera devastatrix) which attacks shoots and nuts. Extensive infestations of P. rimosalis may cause some defoliation, but the species is generally less destructive than its congener. The insect has been observed in Texas and is managed as a pest of commercial pecan orchards.
gall-forming pest pecan Hemiptera agricultural
Phytomyza
Phytomyza is a genus of leaf-mining flies in the family Agromyzidae, comprising at least 170 described species. Larvae develop as miners within living plant leaves, creating distinctive serpentine or blotchy galleries between the upper and lower epidermis. Adults are small, typically black or dark-colored flies resembling tiny houseflies. The genus exhibits high host specificity, with individual species often restricted to particular plant genera or families.
leaf-miner Agromyzidae Diptera pest holly serpentine-mine internal-feeder plant-parasite
Pieris rapae
small white, cabbage white, cabbage butterfly, small cabbage white, imported cabbageworm (larval stage), white butterfly (New Zealand)
Pieris rapae is a small to medium-sized butterfly in the family Pieridae, native to Europe and Asia and introduced to North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii. Adults are white with black wing markings; females bear two additional black spots on the forewings. The species is a significant agricultural pest in its larval stage, known as the imported cabbageworm, feeding on cruciferous crops. It has been extensively studied for its responses to climate change, with long-term data showing progressively earlier spring emergence in North America.
pest agricultural-pest introduced-species climate-change-indicator model-organism urban-adapter diurnal multivoltine migrant mud-puddling crypsis pupal-polyphenism glucosinolate-specialist
Pinyonia edulicola
Pinyon Spindle Gall Midge, Pinyon Spindlegall Midge
A tiny gall-forming midge in the family Cecidomyiidae that induces spindle-shaped galls on developing pinyon pine needles. Adult emergence occurs in mid-June to mid-July. Heavy infestations cause premature needle drop and substantial defoliation, making it a pest of concern in urban landscapes of Colorado.
gall-midge pest conifer-pest urban-entomology Cecidomyiidae Pinus-edulis Colorado induced-gall needle-gall defoliator
Piophila
cheese flies, wine flies
Piophila is a genus of small dipteran flies in the family Piophilidae, comprising two species: Piophila casei (the cheese fly or ham skipper) and Piophila megastigmata. Both species are carrion feeders with forensic importance, and P. casei is a significant pest of cured meat and cheese products. The genus occurs in the Palearctic and has been introduced to other regions.
forensic-entomology pest carrion myiasis food-safety parasitoid-host
Platycorypha nigrivirga
tipu psyllid
Platycorypha nigrivirga, the tipu psyllid, is a Neotropical psyllid species that has become invasive in multiple temperate regions. It exhibits strict host specificity to Tipuana tipu (Fabaceae), feeding on phloem and causing leaf curling and premature defoliation. The species was first documented in Southern California in 2008 and has established populations in Europe and Africa. It is subject to biological control by a complex of generalist arthropod predators.
invasive pest urban phloem-feeder monophagous biological-control
Platynota exasperatana-complex
Platynota exasperatana-complex is a species complex within the tortricid moth genus Platynota, comprising closely related species that are difficult to distinguish morphologically. Members of this complex are leafroller moths whose larvae feed on various plant hosts and are known agricultural pests. The complex is part of the diverse Tortricidae family, which includes many economically significant species.
Tortricidae leafroller pest species-complex Lepidoptera
Pleocoma tularensis
rain beetle
Pleocoma tularensis is a species of rain beetle in the family Pleocomidae, distinguished by having one of the largest geographic ranges within the genus Pleocoma. It is endemic to the central and southern Sierra Nevada of California. Like other rain beetles, adults are sexually dimorphic: males are winged and capable of flight, while females are flightless. Adults do not feed and rely entirely on energy reserves accumulated during their extended larval development underground.
endemic Sierra-Nevada sexual-dimorphism flightless-female apogous-adult subterranean-larva rain-triggered-emergence pest
Plesiommata
Plesiommata is a genus of leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) established by Provancher in 1889. The taxonomic status of this genus is disputed; GBIF flags it as "DOUBTFUL" and Catalogue of Life treats Plesiommata as a subgenus synonym of Aphrophora (Aphrophoridae). At least one species, Plesiommata corniculata, has been documented as a pest of Citrus spp.
leafhopper Cicadellidae pest Citrus taxonomic-uncertainty
Pococera robustella
pine webworm moth
Pococera robustella, commonly known as the pine webworm moth, is a species of pyralid moth whose larvae are significant defoliators of pine trees in eastern North America. The caterpillars feed on pine needles and produce characteristic webbing, giving rise to the common name. This species has been documented as prey for the assassin bug Acholla multispinosa.
defoliator pest pine webworm Pyralidae Lepidoptera North-America
Podosesia
Ash and Lilac Borer Moths
Podosesia is a genus of clearwing moths in the family Sesiidae, established by Möschler in 1879 after the original name Grotea was found to be preoccupied. The genus contains at least three described species in North America, including the economically significant lilac borer (P. syringae) and the banded ash clearwing (P. aureocincta). Larvae are wood-borers in woody plants of the olive family (Oleaceae), particularly ash, lilac, and privet. Adults are diurnal and exhibit wasp mimicry in both appearance and behavior.
Sesiidae clearwing-moth wood-borer wasp-mimicry Oleaceae pest Pheno-Forecast urban-forestry ornamental-pest
Polistes dominula
European Paper Wasp
Polistes dominula is a highly successful invasive social wasp native to Eurasia that has established populations across North America, South America, New Zealand, South Africa, and other regions. First detected in North America near Boston in 1978, it has become one of the most abundant wasps on the continent. The species builds small, exposed paper nests in protected locations and preys primarily on live insects, particularly caterpillars. Unlike yellowjackets, it does not scavenge for meat or sugar. Its rapid spread has been attributed to ecological flexibility, superior competitive ability, and tolerance of human-altered environments.
invasive-species social-wasp paper-wasp predator pollinator urban-ecology eusocial nest-construction biological-control thermal-biology spatial-learning vibrational-communication aposematism honest-signal overwintering diapause Polistes Vespidae Hymenoptera North-America Europe New-Zealand South-Africa South-America monarch-butterfly caterpillar-predation nest-architecture gyne foundress dominance-hierarchy climate-change-impact energetics metabolic-rate microclimate suburban-habitat anthropogenic ornamental-pest vineyard-pest fruit-damage stinging-insect venom poison-gland warning-coloration Zahavian-signal Strepsiptera parasitoid Xenos behavioral-plasticity foraging learning memory thermoregulation ectothermy endothermy solar-radiation nest-temperature brood-development colony-survival multiple-founding single-founding season-length latitude temperate Mediterranean hibernacle overwintering-costs climate-warming range-expansion competition native-species-displacement biodiversity-impact conservation management control integrated-pest-management IPM identification antennae-color facial-markings caste reproduction male female sexual-dimorphism antennae abdomen wing mandible saliva paper comb cell pedicel trophallaxis larva pupa adult worker queen subordinate dominant aggression defense threat-display sting toxicity brightness coloration predator-avoidance prey caterpillar Lepidoptera butterfly moth garden agriculture vineyard orchard urban suburban rural forest habitat-preference temperature metabolism quiescence torpor survival fitness colony nest population abundance distribution range expansion invasion establishment introduction biotic-interaction trophic-cascade herbivory-suppression plant-fitness milkweed Danaus-plexippus monarch Nelson Tasman ecosystem-impact conservation-management biological-invasion ecology behavior physiology morphology taxonomy systematics nomenclature gender-agreement Latin Christ 1791 Vespa-dominula basionym catalogue-of-life GBIF iNaturalist observation citizen-science photography illustration field-guide orange black yellow red color-pattern size wing-length body compact legs short face square triangular dark curled straight elbowed blunt pointed tip Zahavian costly-signal hunt forage nectar honeydew aphid scale-insect flower grape umbellifer fennel lovage insect meatball feed emerge chew cap hexagonal wood-fiber bark exposed open umbrella stalk ant repellent substance coat protect location eave attic tree branch vine shrub cavity bird-box bee-hive shed grave-lantern overwinter shelter protected thermal climate cold winter spring summer autumn fall season month day activity defend threat display raise tiptoe social dominance hierarchy reproductive egg lay found cooperate compete selfish passive-aggressive individual recognition facial-marking cognition mushroom-body brain intelligent artist architect navigation plasticity spatial relocating food resource dish bait training experience vibration communication signal substrate-borne abdominal wagging oscillation secretion modulation perceive react movement attention feeding inspection body-temperature ambient solar radiation metabolic cost energetic expenditure efficiency warming change impact increase invasive spread success competitive ability flexibility adaptation reaction response condition year variation productivity founding single multiple rate benefit cooperation predation parasitism vesparum stylopid stylopization parasite host infestation mite Acari wasp fly effect community decline Danaus plexippus mortality instar early late larger smaller vulnerable resistant discovery chance contact direct recruitment nestmate site cascading trophic cascade herbivory suppression plant growth production Asclepias net exclusion experiment outcome suggestion strong detrimental ecosystem strategy method development protection biodiversity region first 2016 recent established exotic congener chinensis longer comparison higher lower greatest area built structure native unsuccessful translocate unable thrive warmer origin contributor factor research thesis insight behaviour knowledge direction aid effective journal publication DOI 10.26686 wgtn 14538585 v1 University Wellington Victoria MSc student dissertation study investigation analysis data field resident report local indirect interaction level function service provision natural pest biocontrol ornamental decorative crop damage fruit cherry western Colorado at least ripening choice preference height ground strata microsite environment closed habitat dense vegetation surrounding bush Patagonia Argentina Chile NW detected 2003 sympatric coexistence overlap minimal facilitation behavioral process interspecific semi-urban poorly studied species Hypodynerus labiatus new light finding contribution understanding collecting anthropized highlight importance consideration Ethology 10.1111 eth 13505 abstract only limited detail full text required comprehensive synthesis vibrational widespread regulate crucial conspicuous oscillatory wag strictly associated presence suggested involvement adult-larva hypothesis short-term trophallactic exchange modulate salivary decrease amount prepare receive stimulate release electro-magnetic shaker assess time record measure immediately after playback result show produce possibly order attract during neither nor support alleged role long-lasting Experimental Biology 10.1242 jeb 186247 flexible system expanding North America cause stir fast upon explanation present literature good invader northern rise little known nesting Central investigate basic principle Germany 49°group one to four small shorter than other mean newly founded 83 average length 4.6 prefer 54%46%major increased 47%single-foundress whereas 100%more two however no number term per observe well three consecutive greatly depending preceding imply remarkably quickly outside rapid colder Ecosphere 10.1890 es15-00254 1 thermoregulatory polistine different collect demand brood mainly ectothermic task living differing reveal environmental influence warm Southern infrared thermography entire usually ~20–40 °C nearly linearly thorax warmest part achieve optimal preferably use model enable evaluation endothermic effort exhibit weak almost constant performance about contrast mostly minor avoid high way reduce Insects 10.3390 insects10070187 trait strongly Comparative B 10.1007 s00360-016-1041-x provided gallicus insects14110849 adverse weather offer low sheltered live energy store Italy Austria describe calculate according standard differ significantly between 3.2 ±5.71 8.5 5.29 variance correspond closely meteorological cumulative mass-specific over period lowest compared both acclimation calculation up 3 due dramatic 40%additional exponentially temperature-dependent fluctuation disproportionately Jensen's inequality wooden bird box empty bee hive under grapevine grave lantern cemetery begin when exceed ~18–20 confidence note information inferred from active not discussed this source association addressed relationship insects14110886 thermophilic originating but now widely quite synanthropic human settlement place with favorable typical side wasps'wide ~20–37 above air advantage as accelerate speed did approximately 38.6 managed by cooling near ~1–2 cm always clearly elevated station climate-model-generated macroclimate revealed necessity measuring for reliable description insects'brighter-colored poison gland Frontiers Zoology 10.1186 1742-9994-9-20 aposmatism against consisting warning using toxin costly physical could simultaneously abundant striking such case indicate animal toxic also would ensure honestly examine positive correlation exists collected 30 photographed them volume width remained even controlling suggest pattern true sign poisonous they have theoretical predicting indicates quantitative within acting metabolically therefore limitation first-year Spain exact age unknown ethanol preservation may alter applied uniformly pseudoreplication intraspecific supported while successfully worldwide revisiting previously gathered flight manipulation performed target several visit additionally analyse dealing position whether choose visited containing opt novel baited placed 60 away then train either once or compare taken find displaced demonstrate rapidly learned return certain significant reduction likewise manipulate spending less each moreover offered just majority furthermore contribute behavioural considering marginalis Cape Province South Africa African Entomology 10.4001 003 022 0104 Caucasian Entomological Bulletin 10.23885 1814-3326-2015-11-1-85-89 degree Hungary Natura Somogyiensis 10.24394 natsom 2011 19 229 many European country observed 1993 documentation photograph 5 of examined stylopized these exemplar parasitized 18 strepsipteran specimen some taxon scientific name rank preferred common Wonderful World Wasps Bug Squad Article Chris Alice Kratzer author LinkedIn Photo terrible jam-packed pain anger love us out blue minding own business eat picnic frighten child build home complicate already-stressful life Everyone knows be better without So preface book published company 2020 Owlfly LLC what write believe point essential complicated beautiful Indeed play important provide beneficial Look ma pesticide labor passionate dedicated written conversational tone long admirer supporter who grew Jersey continue remember interacting yes getting stung assorted including come territory become entomologist opted engineer received bachelor science 2019 mechanical engineering Rochester Institute Technology worked York until Today executive director managing division Publishing opportunity develop market sustainable potential mitigation fascinate fold into want why how do if tell building understand cycle organism before trying entangle ecological meaning inquiline called cuckoo exploit young call fact catch dismember tiny waist prevent eating sold fluid primary most grasshopper cricket katydid beetle earthworm lanternfly cockroach spider cicada aren't engineering-trained professional knowledgeably began her 2018 January 25 path included holing Cornell Collection networking expert teaching herself software align genetic barcode spent close thousand hour poring platform identifying mapping studying color incredible 400-page billed guide all arctic Greenland Alaska tropical Panama Grenada cover 208 22 genera feature 900 image macro photographer posting bring back Iowa State Professor Amy Toth's seminar Department Nematology told crowd attack extremely complex fascinating creature coined hashtag wasplove wrote illustrated It variety yellowjacket Eurasian red-banded American blackjacket volcano Guatemalian Eastern widow polka-dot prairie California form downy German knew there 'jackets familiar elaborate know dominulo means mistress implies Introduced 1970s since continent Woman Lynn Kimsey Bohart Museum distinguished telling difference scavenger take particularly serious mention UC Statewide Integrated Program wealth PestNote distinct type far troublesome especially ground-cavity-nesting tend vigorously disturbed Defensive increases progresses scarcer primarily start around garbage can dog cat where ripe overripe accessible large colorful tidbit sprinkle throughout intriguing instance Pennsylvania despite Someone mislabeled original And rated 2/5 painful Schmidt Index Bottom line eye-opener page-turner mind-boggler offers approach belongs library scientist citizen curious person wants incredibly diverse amazing next gathering anti-social folk ask anyone sharing rose Davis Calif thirsty sipping water fountain Agraulis vanillae Vacaville tucked inside Wednesday Cincinnati Ohio among changed recently overtaken counterpart Still United adjacent belong same family horn potter mason boreal cooler decidedly handful reaching rarely exceeding 200 unprotected suspend twig stem semi-protected hang sturdy often coated repel chief construction apparent destined likely determined stage act eventually assert leave performs securing developing offspring harvesting fiber surface dead fence post scrape ball deftly plies strip added existing worth having heavily Webworm grab hairy butcher kill spot stripping off any irritating hair spine easily consumed directly share turn distribute occupy reach maturity spin silken dome top molt shortly thereafter freedom sole fertilize Watch August September easy though genders elbow taper goldenrod Solidago throughwort Eupatorium evident extreme variability pair deep marking vary considerably DNA adding mud situation instead clarifying shown below going lump Enjoy watching unless antagonize give standing tip-toe raising make perfectly peaceful neighbor Posted 2:40 AM Email ThisBlogThis!Share XShare FacebookShare Pinterest Labels nature 6 comment ShandaSeptember 8 2010 5:26 loved get never faced can't wait kid question left end hibernate produced ReplyDelete RepliesReplyOut prairieSeptember 8:02 keeping cabbage worm seen RepliesReplyAnonymousSeptember 13 2:06 PM becoming here Upper Peninsula Michigan pendulum seems swung ago everywhere vanishingly rare haven't again house right RepliesReplyL.R ShimerSeptember 4:35 head gal work everybody else kinda egalitarian RepliesReplyLarryMay 9:34 directed Bev Wigney BTW lived NE Missouri detailed presented Thanks cogent scientifically accurate summary insect's life-cycle RepliesBug EricMay 3:47 kind compliments Delete RepliesReplyReplyAdd commentLoad Blog currently reply reader himself Working resolve Newer Older Subscribe Atom Demonized hosting 4 p.m.Saturday Jan 20 Room 1124 Academic Surge 455 Crocker Lane campus Attendees chat check 50,000 vespid eight-million free friendly Parking estimate 2000 described inhabit 500 undescribed headline-grabbing giant Vespa mandarinia formerly Asian news media dubbed murder hornet confuse identify sheet example hidden rodent burrow wall huge 100,00 will scavenge meat sugar soda hamburger road open-faced commonly located annual die cabbageworm white superb much delivered presentation website interested mechanism evolution honey Current project involve novo sequencing genome transcriptome genomic epigenetic regulating nutrition virus health hold doctorate Illinois Urbana–Champaign Gene Robinson postdoctoral Christina Grozinger unwelcome yard patio Preferring like beneath Sometimes legless grublike outstretched hand 15 relatively unaggressive problem doorway list earlier lepidopteran carry yeast winemaking fermentation flavor wine fuscatus recognize devoted mother dote fury opinion human-like great cooperator overall undercurrent selfishness manifest perfect themselves mushroom learning/memory 10 photogenic peer petal visitor camp Sierra Nevada mountain witnessed stinging crowded table ah sipped wondered says elsewhere which fertilized must warms enough lot protein baby need survived because drier usual deal competing go maintenance mode maintain fuel largely useless started mid trap spraying removed--this done night hollow available nearby hope wet barbecue shy except door window high-traffic Typically mated midsummer phase require cease sweet thing normally mild coastal San Francisco survive informative YouTube video Distinguishing see those distinctive put another Oakland Raiders'logo Giants soaking sun abandoned Pollinators Artists delight overhang neighborhood thought Wow hanging lip trash vanished Twitter associate Organismal
Polydrusus formosus
Green Immigrant Leaf Weevil
Polydrusus formosus is a small broad-nosed weevil in the family Curculionidae, native to Europe and introduced to North America. Adults are strikingly metallic green due to dense emerald scales covering the body. The species is a documented pest of fruit trees and ornamental shrubs, feeding on young leaves and blossoms.
pest introduced orchard-pest metallic-coloration
Pontia protodice
Checkered White, Southern Cabbage Butterfly
Pontia protodice, commonly known as the Checkered White or Southern Cabbage Butterfly, is a North American pierid butterfly widespread in the southern United States and northern Mexico. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism in wing patterning, with females displaying more extensive black and gray markings than males. Adults are highly vagile and have been documented making significant seasonal incursions northward beyond their core range. The green larva, known as the Southern Cabbageworm, feeds on a diverse array of Brassicaceous host plants.
butterfly Pieridae cabbage-worm pest North-America sexual-selection UV-reflectance seasonal-migrant disturbed-habitat Brassicaceae-feeder
Prionoxystus macmurtrei
Little Carpenterworm Moth
Prionoxystus macmurtrei, commonly known as the little carpenterworm moth, is a species of carpenter moth in the family Cossidae. Adults are active from spring through mid-summer across eastern and central North America. The larvae are wood-borers that tunnel through hardwood trees, causing damage that reduces lumber value.
wood-borer pest hardwood nocturnal spring-moth
Prionoxystus robiniae
Carpenterworm Moth, Locust Borer
Prionoxystus robiniae is a moth in the family Cossidae, found across much of North America from southern Canada through most of the United States. Adults are active from May to July, with wingspans ranging from 43–85 mm. The larvae are wood-borers that tunnel into hardwood trees, causing economic damage to timber. Females release sex pheromones to attract males, which fly upwind to locate them; mating occurs at dusk and early night, with copulation lasting 1–2 hours.
Cossidae wood-borer pest sex-pheromone ultrasonic-communication hardwood-pest North-America
Prionus californicus
California root borer, California prionus
Prionus californicus is a large, sexually dimorphic longhorned beetle native to western North America. Adults emerge from soil in early summer and are active from June through August. Females are larger than males and produce a volatile sex pheromone to attract mates, while males possess more strongly serrated antennae. The species spends most of its life cycle underground as root-feeding larvae, making it a significant pest of orchards, vineyards, and other woody plants.
Cerambycidae root-borer pest pheromone sexual-dimorphism western-North-America orchard-pest vineyard-pest edible-insect subterranean-larvae
Prionus laticollis
broad-necked root borer, broad necked prionus
Prionus laticollis, commonly known as the broad-necked root borer, is a large root-boring longhorn beetle native to eastern North America. The species is a significant economic pest of apple orchards, where larvae tunnel through roots causing structural damage to trees. Adults are primarily nocturnal, with males attracted to lights and females using an elongated ovipositor to deposit eggs in soil. The species exhibits strong sexual dimorphism, with females substantially larger than males. The life cycle spans 3-4 years, with larvae developing underground while feeding on tree roots.
pest root-borer apple-pest nocturnal pheromone sexual-dimorphism longhorn-beetle cerambycidae prioninae eastern-north-america
Pristiphora
Pristiphora is a genus of sawflies in the family Tenthredinidae. Species within this genus are known for their larval feeding on leaves of various plants, with some species causing significant economic damage to trees and shrubs. The genus includes notable pests such as the larch sawfly (Pristiphora erichsonii), which defoliates tamarack and other larch species. Adults are small, dark-colored wasp-like insects with two pairs of wings.
sawfly Tenthredinidae pest defoliator larch columbine Hymenoptera Symphyta
Pristiphora geniculata
mountain ash sawfly, rowan leaf sawfly, Ebereschen-Blattwespe
Pristiphora geniculata is a sawfly species in the family Tenthredinidae, native to the Palaearctic region and introduced to North America. It is a specialized herbivore of Sorbus species, particularly mountain ash (rowan). The species exhibits facultative parthenogenesis and shows pronounced sexual dimorphism in larval development, with females having five instars compared to four in males. In eastern Canada, it typically produces two generations annually, though only one in northern Quebec and at higher elevations in Europe. The species has been the target of successful classical biological control programs using the parasitoid wasp Olesicampe geniculatae.
sawfly Tenthredinidae herbivore pest biological-control parthenogenesis sexual-dimorphism diapause Palaearctic invasive-species classical-biological-control-success gregarious-feeding Olesicampe-geniculatae Sorbus mountain-ash rowan
Prociphilus
Woolly Aphids
Prociphilus is a genus of woolly aphids in the family Aphididae, subfamily Eriosomatinae, comprising approximately 50 species. These aphids are notable for inducing gall formation on host plants, within which they reside and feed. The genus exhibits complex life cycles including host alternation and polyphenism, with multiple distinct morphs adapted to different hosts and conditions. Several species have documented mutualistic relationships with ants, and some display remarkable seasonal phenomena such as the mass emergence of Prociphilus oriens in Japan, which is culturally associated with the first snowfall.
aphid gall-former woolly-aphid ant-mutualism polyphenism pest Japan snow-bug
Protaphis middletonii
Corn Root Aphid
Protaphis middletonii is an aphid species in the family Aphididae, described by Thomas in 1879. It is commonly known as the Corn Root Aphid. The species is recognized as a pest of millets and other cereal crops. It has been documented in Brazil and is represented by limited but confirmed observations.
aphid pest agricultural root-feeding Hemiptera
Proteoteras
boxelder twig borer moth, maple twig borer moth
Proteoteras is a genus of tortricid moths in the subfamily Olethreutinae, commonly known as twig borer moths. The genus includes at least eight described species, several of which are economically significant pests of maple and boxelder trees. Larvae tunnel in twigs, petioles, and seeds, causing terminal dieback and structural damage. The genus was established by Riley in 1881, with P. aesculana as the type species.
pest forestry nursery internal-feeder twig-borer
Proteoteras aesculana
maple twig borer, maple tip moth, early proteoteras, Maple Twig Borer Moth
Proteoteras aesculana is a small tortricid moth known as the maple twig borer or maple tip moth. It is a significant pest of maple trees in production nurseries, where larval feeding causes tip dieback and kills the central leader. The species has a broad North American distribution spanning from coast to coast in the northern United States and scattered locations across southern Canada.
pest maple nursery tortricid internal-feeder North-America spring-flight pheromone parasitoids bifenthrin integrated-pest-management
Pryeria
Pryeria is a genus of zygaenid moths native to southeastern Asia, with three described species. The genus gained attention when Pryeria sinica was discovered in Virginia and Maryland in 2002, representing a new invasive pest of ornamental Euonymus shrubs in North America. The larvae are gregarious feeders that create distinctive marginal notches on leaves.
invasive pest wasp-mimicry cyanogenic gregarious univoltine
Pryeria sinica
euonymus leaf notcher, euonymus defoliator moth
Pryeria sinica is a univoltine zygaenid moth native to East Asia, introduced to the United States in 2002 where it has established populations in Maryland and Virginia. The species is a specialist herbivore of Celastraceae, particularly Euonymus species, where larvae feed gregariously and create distinctive marginal notches on leaves. Adults are diurnal wasp mimics with clear wings and aposematic coloration. The species has been reported more recently in the United Kingdom.
invasive-species pest ornamental-pest univoltine diurnal wasp-mimicry gregarious-larvae chemical-defense cyanogenic Celastraceae-specialist
Pseudacysta perseae
Avocado Lace Bug
Pseudacysta perseae is a lace bug in the family Tingidae, originally described by Heidemann in 1908. It is a significant foliar pest of avocado (Persea americana), causing characteristic damage to leaves. The species has undergone substantial range expansion from its original Caribbean distribution to include Mexico, the southern United States, and Central America. It has been introduced to California, where population genetic studies indicate at least two separate invasion events. The species passes through four nymphal instars and exhibits sexual dimorphism in antennal coloration, with adult males having a substantially darker fourth antennal segment.
pest avocado agriculture invasive biological-control thermal-biology Hemiptera Tingidae lace-bug California Florida Mexico Caribbean
Pseudaonidia paeoniae
Peony Scale
Pseudaonidia paeoniae, commonly known as the Peony Scale, is a species of armored scale insect in the family Diaspididae. It is a specialized herbivore that feeds on peonies (Paeonia spp.), extracting plant fluids through piercing-sucking mouthparts. The species has been documented across multiple continents including Asia, Europe, and North America, likely distributed through the horticultural trade of its host plants. Like other armored scales, it produces a protective waxy covering (test) that shields the body from predators and environmental conditions.
scale-insect armored-scale pest ornamental-pest peony horticulture invasive-potential
Pseudaulacaspis cockerelli
false oleander scale, fullaway oleander scale, magnolia white scale, mango scale, oleander scale, oyster scale
Pseudaulacaspis cockerelli is an armored scale insect (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) commonly known as false oleander scale. It is a polyphagous pest with a broad global distribution spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Oceania. The species infests numerous ornamental and agricultural plants, with documented hosts including oleander (Nerium oleander), mango (Mangifera indica), magnolia, and various palms. As a member of the armored scales, it produces a protective waxy covering over its body while feeding on plant sap.
scale-insect armored-scale Diaspididae pest polyphagous ornamental-pest agricultural-pest
Pseudexentera mali
pale apple leafroller, pale apple budworm
Pseudexentera mali is a tortricid moth species commonly known as the pale apple leafroller or pale apple budworm. It belongs to the family Tortricidae and was described by Freeman in 1942. The species is an early-season flier and is considered economically important as a pest of apple (Malus). Males are attracted to the sex pheromone component Z,Z-8,10-16:Ac. The MONA or Hodges number for this species is 3247.
pest agricultural-pest apple-pest tortricid leafroller early-season-flier sex-pheromone MONA-3247 Hodges-3247
Pseudocneorhinus bifasciatus
twobanded Japanese weevil, two-banded Japanese weevil
Pseudocneorhinus bifasciatus is an invasive broad-nosed weevil native to Japan that has established populations in the United States. First detected near Philadelphia in 1914, it is believed to have arrived via infested nursery stock. The species has since spread throughout the northeastern, midwestern, and southeastern United States, with documented presence in at least 11 states. It is recognized as a significant pest of ornamental and landscape plantings due to its broad host range.
invasive-species pest ornamental-pest parthenogenetic nursery-stock broad-nosed-weevil
Pseudophacopteron
Pseudophacopteron is a genus of psyllids (Hemiptera: Phacopteronidae) first described by Enderlein in 1921. Species in this genus are associated with specific host plants in Central Africa, particularly in Cameroon. Multiple species have been documented as pests of cultivated and wild plants, causing damage through feeding activity. The genus exhibits host specialization, with different species utilizing distinct plant families including Burseraceae and Rutaceae.
psyllid pest Central-Africa Cameroon safou Dacryodes-edulis agricultural-pest phloem-feeder
Pseudosphinx
tetrio sphinx, giant gray sphinx, frangipani hornworm, plumeria caterpillar, Rasta caterpillar
Pseudosphinx is a monotypic moth genus in the family Sphingidae, containing only Pseudosphinx tetrio. The genus is notable for its highly specialized herbivory on toxic Apocynaceae plants and its striking aposematic larval coloration. Adults are large brown sphinx moths with 12.7–14 cm wingspans. The caterpillars are among the largest hornworms in the Americas, exceeding 15 cm in length, and are serious defoliators of ornamental Plumeria species throughout the tropical and subtropical Americas.
monotypic specialist-herbivore aposematic urticating-hairs pest pollinator tropical hornworm Sphingidae Apocynaceae
Psila rosae
carrot fly, carrot rust fly
Psila rosae, commonly known as the carrot fly or carrot rust fly, is a dipteran pest of cultivated umbelliferous crops. Adults orient to host plants using volatile chemical cues from carrot foliage, with strong electroantennogram responses to propenylbenzenes such as trans-asarone and trans-methylisoeugenol. Larvae feed on carrot roots, causing characteristic mining damage that reduces crop quality and yield. The species has a broad geographic distribution spanning Europe, Asia, North America, and New Zealand. Overwintering occurs as both larvae and pupae, with temperature-dependent diapause in pupae contributing to population synchronization and the potential for multiple generations per year.
pest agricultural root-feeder diptera chemical-ecology umbelliferae apiaceae
Psoloessa delicatula
Brown-spotted Range Grasshopper, Brownspotted Grasshopper
Psoloessa delicatula is a small slant-faced grasshopper inhabiting western North American grasslands. It exhibits a flexible life cycle ranging from one to two years depending on latitude. The species is notable for sophisticated thermoregulatory behaviors and specific feeding techniques on grasses and sedges. Population densities fluctuate dramatically, occasionally reaching outbreak levels in mixedgrass prairie habitats.
grasshopper slant-faced-grasshopper thermoregulation rangeland grassland pest North-America
Pterocomma populeum
Poplar Bark Aphid
Pterocomma populeum is an aphid species specialized on poplar trees (Populus spp.). It forms dense colonies on branches and in bark crevices, feeding on phloem sap. The species relies on the obligate endosymbiont Buchnera aphidicola to obtain essential amino acids absent from its carbohydrate-rich diet. Heavy infestations can cause shoot dieback in poplar plantations.
aphid pest poplar endosymbiont phloem-feeder invasive agricultural-pest
Pulicidae
Common Fleas
Pulicidae is a family of fleas (Siphonaptera) containing 181 species in 27 genera. Members are wingless, laterally compressed ectoparasites of mammals with exceptional jumping ability enabled by the elastic protein resilin. The family includes significant pests such as the cat flea (*Ctenocephalides felis*), dog flea (*C. canis*), and human flea (*Pulex irritans*), which are vectors of disease and parasites.
ectoparasite vector pest jumping resilin
Pulvinaria floccifera
Cottony Camellia Scale, Cottony Yew Scale, Cottony Taxus Scale
Pulvinaria floccifera is a soft scale insect (Coccidae) known for producing conspicuous white, cottony ovisacs that cover eggs. It is a significant pest of woody ornamentals including camellia, holly, yew, and tea plants. The species has a broad global distribution spanning temperate and subtropical regions. Females are sessile and wingless, while males develop wings for mating. Heavy infestations produce honeydew that supports sooty mold growth, reducing plant vigor and aesthetic value.
scale-insect soft-scale pest ornamental tea-pest Coccidae Sternorrhyncha honeydew sooty-mold biological-control-host
Pulvinaria vitis
Cottony Grape Scale, Cottony Scale
Pulvinaria vitis is a thelytokous cottony scale insect native to Europe, now established across much of the Northern Hemisphere and beyond. It is a univoltine pest of grape and peach, with adult females overwintering on host bark and producing large ovisacs containing thousands of eggs in spring. The species exhibits distinctive discontinuous growth and feeding patterns, with three nymphal instars and limited mobility after the first moult.
scale-insect pest vineyard-pest orchard-pest thelytoky univoltine invasive-species