Insects That Start With O

Let’s explore the insects that start with O in today’s post.

Insects are a group of animals that have fascinated and frightened humans since ancient times. These six-legged creatures have been featured in myths, art, and literature for their symbolic and metaphorical meanings. However, they are more than mere symbols or metaphors. Insects are living beings that have their own complex biology and behavior. They possess unique senses, communication systems, and reproductive strategies. They can survive in almost any habitat and outcompete other organisms for resources. They are also threatened by human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. Learning about insects can open up a window to the natural world and encourage us to appreciate and respect its diversity.

Assembling a list of insects was more challenging than I anticipated. I had to sift through a lot of misinformation and outdated sources before I finally compiled a comprehensive list. It was a lot of work, but I’m pleased with the end result.

So, let’s begin exploring this list of insects starting with O!

60 Insects That Start With O

And here’s the list of insects that begin with O letter.

Oak Clearwing Moth

The Oak Clearwing Moth (Paranthrene optata) is a small moth with clear wings that mimic the shape and color of a wasp. This mimicry helps protect the moth from predators. The Oak Clearwing Moth ranges from Alaska to Mexico and is commonly found in oak forests. The caterpillars of this moth bore into the branches of oak trees and feed on the inner bark. The Oak Clearwing Moth has a short lifespan of only a few weeks and is therefore rarely seen except by entomologists.

Oak Lace Bug

The Oak Lace Bug (Corythucha arcuata) is a small, oval-shaped insect that feeds on the leaves of oak trees. The Oak Lace Bug is usually less than 1/4 inch long and has a distinctive lacy pattern on its wings. These insects are often found in groups on the undersides of oak leaves, where they feed on the sap of the leaves. The feeding activity of the Oak Lace Bug can result in yellowing and sometimes premature dropping of the leaves. Oak Lace Bugs are not aggressive and do not pose a threat to humans.

Oak Leafroller

The Oak Leafroller (Archips semiferanus) is a small moth that lays its eggs in the folds of oak leaves. Once hatched, the larvae of the Oak Leafroller feed on the leaves of oak trees, causing them to curl and twist, which provides a protective shelter for the larvae. The Oak Leafroller is found throughout North America and is not considered a major pest, although in heavy infestations it can cause significant leaf damage.

Oak Leaftier

The Oak Leaftier (Croesia semipurpurana) is a small moth whose larvae feed on the leaves of oak trees. The larvae of the Oak Leaftier create a silk webbing that attaches to the tips of oak leaves, binding them together to form a shelter for the larvae. The Oak Leaftier prefers mature oak trees, and heavy infestations can cause significant defoliation.

Oak Lecanium

The Oak Lecanium (Parthenolecanium quercifex) is a scale insect that feeds on the sap of oak trees. These insects are usually found on the twigs and branches of oak trees and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Large populations of Oak Lecanium can also cause branch dieback.

Oak Sapling Borer

The Oak Sapling Borer (Podosesia syringae) is a moth whose larvae bore into the sapwood of oak saplings, causing significant damage that can result in the death of the tree. The Oak Sapling Borer prefers younger oak trees and is commonly found in nurseries and young oak plantings.

Oak Skeletonizer

The Oak Skeletonizer (Bucculatrix ainsliella) is a small moth whose larvae feed on the leaves of oak trees, causing the leaves to turn brown and develop a skeleton-like appearance. The larvae of the Oak Skeletonizer create a protective shelter by rolling oak leaves and binding them together with silk.

Oak Timberworm

The Oak Timberworm (Arrhenodes minutus) is a small beetle that feeds on the bark and sapwood of oak trees. The larvae of the Oak Timberworm bore into the tree, causing damage that can result in the death of the tree. Oak Timberworms are commonly found in oak forests and can cause significant damage to mature trees.

Oak Webworm

The Oak Webworm (Archips argyrospila) is a small moth whose larvae create a silk webbing that covers the tips of oak leaves. The larvae of the Oak Webworm feed on the leaves underneath the webbing, causing significant damage that can result in the defoliation of the tree. Oak Webworms are found throughout North America and are considered a minor pest.

Obliquebanded Leafroller

The Obliquebanded Leafroller (Choristoneura rosaceana) is a small moth whose larvae feed on the leaves of oak and other trees. The larvae of the Obliquebanded Leafroller use silk to spin together the leaves of oak trees, creating a shelter where they can feed on the leaves. Heavy infestations can cause significant leaf damage, but the Obliquebanded Leafroller is generally considered a minor pest.

Obscure Mealybug

The Obscure Mealybug (Pseudococcus viburni) is a scale insect that feeds on the sap of many different plants, including oak trees. These insects are usually found on the twigs and branches of oak trees and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Large populations of Obscure Mealybug can also cause branch dieback.

Obscure Root Weevil

The Obscure Root Weevil (Sciopithes obscurus) is a small beetle whose larvae feed on the roots of oak and other trees. The feeding activity of the Obscure Root Weevil can cause stunting and sometimes death of the tree. The adults of this beetle feed on the leaves of the tree.

Obscure Scale

The Obscure Scale (Melanaspis obscura) is a scale insect that feeds on the sap of oak and other trees. These insects are usually found on the twigs and branches of oak trees and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Large populations of Obscure Scale can also cause branch dieback.

Oceanic Burrower Bug

The Oceanic Burrower Bug (Cyrtomenus ciliatus) is a medium-sized insect that lives in sandy beach environments. These bugs burrow into the sand and feed on small insects and other arthropods. They are found worldwide in warm coastal regions.

Oceanic Embiid

The Oceanic Embiid (Australembia australis) is a small insect that lives in coastal areas in the southern hemisphere. These insects are known for their ability to spin silk, which they use to construct tubes that protect them from predators and harsh environmental conditions. The Oceanic Embiid feeds on a variety of small insects and other arthropods.

Oceanic Field Cricket

The Oceanic Field Cricket (Teleogryllus oceanicus) is a large cricket that is found in coastal regions around the Pacific. These crickets are omnivorous and will feed on plants, insects, and other small animals. The males of this species produce a distinctive chirping sound to attract mates.

Odd Beetle

The Odd Beetle (Strangalia luteicornis) is a medium-sized beetle that is found throughout North America. These beetles feed on the sap of oak and other trees, and are known for their distinctive yellow coloring. The Odd Beetle is not considered a major pest.

Odorous House Ant

The Odorous House Ant (Tapinoma sessile) is a small ant that is found throughout North America. These ants are named for the unpleasant odor they emit when crushed, which is often described as smelling like rotten coconut. Odorous House Ants are not considered a pest, but can be a nuisance when they invade homes in search of food.

Old House Borer

The Old House Borer (Hylotrupes bajulus) is a large beetle whose larvae bore into the structural timbers of buildings. Old House Borers are found throughout North America and Europe, and can cause significant damage to older homes and other structures. Infestations of Old House Borers can be difficult to control and often require professional pest management.

Old World Bollworm

The Old World Bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) is a large moth whose larvae feed on the reproductive structures of many different plants, including oak trees. The Old World Bollworm is native to Asia, but has spread to many other regions of the world, including Europe, Africa, and Australia. The Old World Bollworm is considered a major pest of agriculture.

Oleander Aphid

The Oleander Aphid is a small, soft-bodied insect that can be found on Oleander and Milkweed plants. They reproduce very quickly and can cause significant damage to their host plants.

Oleander Hawk Moth

The Oleander Hawk Moth is a large, impressive-looking moth that can be found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. They are known for their striking, intricate wing patterns and their tendency to pollinate Oleander plants.

Oleander Pit Scale

The Oleander Pit Scale is a tiny, parasitic insect that feeds on the sap of Oleander plants. They can cause severe damage to their host plants, leading to leaf drop and stunted growth.

Oleander Scale

The Oleander Scale is a small, armored insect that can be found on Oleander and other ornamental plants. They feed on the sap of their hosts and can cause significant damage if left unchecked.

Olive Fruit Fly

The Olive Fruit Fly is a major pest of Olive trees, causing damage to the fruit and reducing crop yields. They are considered one of the most economically important pests in Olive-growing regions.

Olive Scale

The Olive Scale is a small, sap-sucking insect that can cause significant damage to Olive trees if left unchecked. They reproduce quickly and can quickly infest entire orchards.

Omnivorous Leafroller

The Omnivorous Leafroller is a small, unassuming insect that feeds on a wide variety of plants. They are known for their unique rolling behavior, in which they wrap themselves in plant tissue to avoid predators.

Omnivorous Leaftier

The Omnivorous Leaftier is a small, moth-like insect that feeds on a wide variety of plants. They are known for their ability to roll leaves and spin silk webs to protect themselves from predators.

Omnivorous Looper

The Omnivorous Looper is a moth-like insect that feeds on a wide range of plant species. They are known for their unique looping behavior, in which they move in a looping motion across their host plants.

Onespotted Stink Bug

The Onespotted Stink Bug is a pest of a wide variety of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and grains. They feed on plant sap and can cause significant damage to their host plants.

Onion Aphid

The Onion Aphid is a small, sap-sucking insect that can cause significant damage to Onion crops. They reproduce quickly and can quickly infest entire fields if left unchecked.

Onion Bulb Fly

The Onion Bulb Fly is a pest of Onion crops, causing damage to the bulbs and reducing crop yields. They are a major problem in many Onion-growing regions.

Onion Maggot

The Onion Maggot is a small, fly-like insect that lays its eggs in Onion plants. The maggots that hatch from these eggs can cause significant damage to the bulbs, reducing crop yields.

Onion Plant Bug

The Onion Plant Bug is a pest of Onion crops, feeding on the sap of the plants and causing damage to the foliage. They can quickly infest entire fields if left unchecked.

Onion Thrips

The Onion Thrips is a small, sap-sucking insect that can cause significant damage to Onion crops. They reproduce quickly and can quickly infest entire fields if left unchecked.

Orange Mint Moth

The Orange Mint Moth is a small, colorful insect that can be found in gardens and meadows throughout much of the United States. They are attracted to the flowers of mint and other plants in the Lamiaceae family.

Orange Spiny Whitefly

The Orange Spiny Whitefly is a pest of citrus crops, feeding on the sap of the trees and causing damage to the foliage. They are known for their spiny appearance and the waxy residue they leave behind.

Orange Tortrix

The Orange Tortrix is a small, moth-like insect that can be found in orchards and gardens throughout much of the United States. They are known for their striking orange coloration and their tendency to feed on a variety of fruit trees.

Orangedog

The Orangedog is a caterpillar that feeds on the leaves of citrus trees, causing defoliation and reducing the tree’s vigor. They are called “Orangedog” because of their orange coloration and the fact that they resemble a small, wriggling dog.

Orangehumped Mapleworm

The Orangehumped Mapleworm is a pest of Maple trees, feeding on the leaves and causing defoliation. They are known for their distinctive orange hump on their backs.

Orangestriped Oakworm

The Orangestriped Oakworm is a pest of Oak trees, feeding on the leaves and causing significant defoliation. They are known for their distinctive orange stripes and their tendency to hatch in large numbers.

Orangetailed Potter Wasp

The Orangetailed Potter Wasp is a type of solifuge wasp that can be found in many parts of the world. They are known for their distinctive orange tail and their ability to create intricate pottery-like nests.

Orchid Aphid

The Orchid Aphid is a small, soft-bodied insect that can be found on a wide variety of flower types, including Orchids. They feed on the sap of their host plants and can cause significant damage if left unchecked.

Orchidfly

The Orchidfly is a small, colorful insect that can be found in tropical regions throughout the world. They are known for their intricate wing patterns and their tendency to pollinate a wide variety of Orchid species.

Oregon Fir Sawyer

The Oregon Fir Sawyer is a large, wood-boring beetle that can be found in the Pacific Northwest. They feed on the sapwood of conifer trees and can cause significant damage to young trees.

Oregon Wireworm

The Oregon Wireworm is a pest of many different crops, including potatoes and corn. They feed on the roots of their host plants and can cause significant reductions in crop yields.

Oriental Beetle

The Oriental Beetle is a pest of turfgrass, feeding on the roots and causing significant damage to lawns and golf courses. They are known for their distinctive, C-shaped larvae that can be found in the soil.

Oriental Cockroach

The Oriental Cockroach is a species of cockroach that can be found throughout the world. They are known for their large size and their preference for damp, dark environments.

Oriental Fruit Fly

The Oriental Fruit Fly is a major pest of fruit crops, causing significant damage to citrus, guava, and other fruit trees. They are considered one of the most economically important pests in many parts of the world.

Oriental Fruit Moth

The Oriental Fruit Moth is a pest of many different fruit crops, including peaches, apples, and pears. They are known for their distinctive mottled appearance and their ability to quickly reproduce and infest entire orchards.

Oriental House Fly

The Oriental house fly, also known as the Musca domestica, is a common pest in households and establishments throughout the world. It is known to carry and spread diseases to humans and animals alike.

Oriental Moth

The Oriental moth is a large and colorful moth species found in Asia. It is known for its impressive wingspan and beautiful patterns on its wings.

Oriental Rat Flea

The Oriental rat flea, also known as the Xenopsylla cheopis, is the primary carrier of the bubonic plague. Its bite can also transmit other diseases such as typhus and murine typhus.

Oriental Stink Bug

The Oriental stink bug, also known as the Halyomorpha halys, is a notorious agricultural pest in Asia and North America. It feeds on a wide range of crops and fruits, causing significant damage to farmers and gardeners.

Ornate Aphid

The ornate aphid, also known as the Prociphilus oriens, is a small insect that feeds on the sap of plants. It is often found on fruit trees and ornamental plants.

Orthezia Lady Beetle

The Orthezia lady beetle, also known as the Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, is a predatory insect that feeds on several pest insects such as scales, mealybugs, and whiteflies. It is a natural and effective biological control agent.

Oval Guineapig Louse

The oval guinea pig louse, also known as the Gliricola porcelli, is a common parasite that infests guinea pigs. It feeds on the host’s blood and causes itching, hair loss, and skin irritations.

Oxalis Spider Mite

The Oxalis spider mite, also known as the Tetranychus urticae, is a common pest of garden and greenhouse plants. It feeds on the sap of plants and causes yellowing and wilting of leaves.

Oxalis Whitefly

The Oxalis whitefly, also known as the Trialeurodes vaporariorum, is a small insect that feeds on the sap of plants. It can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and transmission of plant viruses.

Oystershell Scale

The oystershell scale, also known as the Lepidosaphes ulmi, is a common pest of many woody plants. It feeds on the sap of trees and shrubs and causes yellowing of leaves, twig dieback, and even death of the host.

Wrapping Up

And that’s our list of O insects.

Compiling a list of insects required a lot of patience and dedication. I had to wade through an endless sea of articles, videos, and other materials to ensure I had included all the necessary information. But in the end, I managed to put together a comprehensive list that I’m proud of.

Insects have astonishing abilities and characteristics that make them stand out among other animals. They come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns, and their behavior and lifestyles are fascinating. Flies, for example, can fly backwards and have eyes that can detect movement up to 180 degrees. Beetles have hardened wing covers that serve as shields against potential predators, and some species even glow in the dark. Despite their apparent complexity, insects are incredibly fragile and vulnerable to human activities’ harmful effects. It is up to us to take responsibility for keeping their populations safe and healthy.

Hope this post on insects beginning with O alphabet has been useful to you!