group
Adelges laricis
This record describes Adelges laricis (species). Recorded family: Adelgidae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
The larvae of Adelges laricis cause galls on Spruce. The galls are waxy, creamy and relatively small. The winged female which matures on spruce is greyish to blackish, with a body length of 1.9 to 2.0 mm. For a full description of the life cycle see link below. The Adelges laricis species group contains A. viridis , A. viridiana & A. laricis , which cannot be readily distinguished. A. laricis is the commonest species. Adult: Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Gall: When recording the gall please state the host species and provide images. Adelges laricis host alternates between the primary host Spruce and the secondary host Larch. (see further information link below). True status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Adelges_laricis_Larch_adelgid_Larch_woolly_aphid.htm
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found on Spruce and Larch.
Seasonal Activity
The galls mature in June-July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Adelges laricis
Additional species information
Recorded status
True status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Adelges laricis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hemiptera (true bugs) includes over 80,000 described species across cicadas, aphids, leafhoppers, shield bugs, and bed bugs. Aphids alone cost global agriculture an estimated $2.5 billion annually in crop losses.
Ecological role of the group
Many Hemiptera are essential food sources for birds and predatory insects. Cicadas provide massive nutrient pulses during emergence events - a single Brood X emergence can involve trillions of individuals across 15 states.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) caused $37 million in apple crop losses in a single year in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region. Bed bug infestations in the U.S. increased by 500% between 2001-2010, costing the hotel industry hundreds of millions annually.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, EPA, University research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of group (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About group
What is group?
group (Adelges laricis) is a species in the family Adelgidae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is group?
of 1.9 to 2.0 mm. For a full description of the life cycle see link below.
Where is group found?
Habitat: Found on Spruce and Larch.
When is group active?
group: seasonal activity - The galls mature in June-July..
What is the life cycle of a group?
Adelges laricis