Beneficial Insects and Mites in NH Apple Trees

 

Ladybugs: There are several species, but the most common is Multicolored Asian Ladybug. Adults are quite variable, and can have from zero to 18 spots. They almost always have a black "M" shape on the white thorax (segment just behind the head). Larvae remind people of alligators, with orange and black projections. The larvae often pupate on fruit, puzzling growers and customers.

 

Syrphid Flies: Larvae of syrphid flies are common predators in aphid colonies on shoots and foliage. There are several species, but most are mottled in appearance. Eggs are oval, whitish, and have a bumpy surface viewed with a hand lens.

 

Cecidomyid Flies: Larvae of Cecidomyids also attack aphids. They are bright orange maggots. Eggs are very tiny, but are also bright orange.

 

Tachinid Flies: "ta-kin-id" flies are parasites, and many attack caterpillars. Any caterpillar with a small, oval white dot (or several) has been attacked. Unless you have a microscope, the adults look like house flies.