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Hemlock woolly aphid

Hemlock woolly aphid

Adelges tsugae

A species of Adelges

The hemlock woolly adelgid (/əˈdɛl.dʒɪd/; Adelges tsugae), or HWA, is an insect of the order Hemiptera (true bugs) native to East Asia. It feeds by sucking sap from hemlock and spruce trees (Tsuga spp.; Picea spp.). In its native range, HWA is not a serious pest because populations are managed by natural predators and parasitoids and by host resistance. In eastern North America it is a destructive pest that threatens the eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) and the Carolina hemlock (Tsuga caroliniana). HWA is also found in western North America, where it has likely been present for thousands of years. In western North America, it primarily attacks western hemlock Tsuga heterophylla and has only caused minor damage due to natural predators and host resistance. Accidentally introduced to North America from Japan, HWA was first found in the eastern United States near Richmond, Virginia, in 1951. The pest is now found from northern Georgia to coastal Maine and southwestern Nova Scotia. As of 2015, 90% of the geographic range of eastern hemlock in North America has been affected by HWA.

General Info About Hemlock woolly aphid
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Attributes of Hemlock woolly aphid
Colors
White
Habitat
hemlock; spruce
Adult Food Sources
Eastern hemlock sap, tsuga canadensis needles, western hemlock sap, tsuga heterophylla needles, nutrients from hemlock trees
Larva Food Source
Eastern hemlock sap, tsuga canadensis needles, western hemlock sap, tsuga heterophylla needles, nutrients from hemlock trees
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Piercing-sucking mouthparts
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Species Status of Hemlock woolly aphid
Invade eastern North America
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Distribution Area of Hemlock woolly aphid
United States
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Predators of Adult Hemlock woolly aphid
Beetles, flies, wasps, birds
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Interesting Facts About Hemlock woolly aphid
Adult hemlock woolly aphid exhibit a unique defense mechanism; they can secrete a sticky substance to deter predators.
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Scientific Classification of Hemlock woolly aphid
Tips for Finding Hemlock woolly aphid
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Youth Habitat of Hemlock woolly aphid
Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of Hemlock woolly aphid
Forests and Woodlands
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When is the Best Time to Observe Hemlock woolly aphid
The best time to find hemlock woolly aphid is during its active feeding stages, which is typically in the spring and early summer.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Hemlock woolly aphid
Humid and overcast conditions are favorable for searching hemlock woolly aphid, as these are conducive to their activity and make the conditions less harsh for the searcher.
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How and Where Can You Find Hemlock woolly aphid at Different Life Stages
Adult Hemlock woolly aphid adults can be located on the twigs and needles of hemlock trees. They are sedentary once attached to a spot. Search for white wool-like wax on hemlocks as an indicator of their presence.
Nymph Hemlock woolly aphid nymphs, also known as crawlers, are mobile and can be found by examining the foliage and twigs of hemlock trees closely during their hatching period in late spring.
Egg Hemlock woolly aphid eggs are laid beneath the adult hemlock woolly aphid and covered in their woolly wax. Locating adults will often lead to finding eggs. Use a hand lens to inspect for spherical, reddish-brown eggs beneath the wool-like wax on hemlocks.
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Harmful Effects of Hemlock woolly aphid
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Hurt Plant

Hemlock woolly aphid causes damage through feeding on the sap from hemlock trees' leaves. This insect utilizes its piercing mouthparts to extract plant fluids, which can lead to a decline in the tree's health. Affected trees may exhibit needle discoloration and loss, reduced growth rates, and potentially, premature death if the infestation is severe.

More Effects of Hemlock woolly aphid

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