Cooley spruce gall adelgid is characterized by what feature on spruces?

Cooley spruce gall adelgid is characterized by what feature on spruces?

• A. Cone-shaped galls on terminal twigs.
• B. White cottony tufts on bark.
• C. Needle drop due to needle mites.
• D. Tents on foliage.

Answer: (A)

Cooley spruce gall adelgid is identified by cone-shaped galls that form on the ends of spruce shoots. The insects feeding on the developing twig tissue induce these distinctive cone-like growths, which are the primary sign scouts look for on spruces. Heavy infestations can distort growth and weaken branches over time. Other signs—white cottony masses on bark, tents on foliage, or needle drop from mites—point to different pests, not this adelgid. So the cone-shaped galls on terminal twigs are the key feature to recognize.

Cooley spruce gall adelgid is identified by cone-shaped galls that form on the ends of spruce shoots. The insects feeding on the developing twig tissue induce these distinctive cone-like growths, which are the primary sign scouts look for on spruces. Heavy infestations can distort growth and weaken branches over time. Other signs—white cottony masses on bark, tents on foliage, or needle drop from mites—point to different pests, not this adelgid. So the cone-shaped galls on terminal twigs are the key feature to recognize.