Insects That Start With M

When most people think of insects, they tend to imagine bothersome bugs that invade their homes or swarm around outdoor lights. However, there’s much more to these tiny creatures than meets the eye. Insects are a diverse and complex group of animals that have adapted to countless niches and lifestyles. They range from the microscopic to the meter-long, from the solitary to the social, and from the harmless to the deadly. They also exhibit a vast array of astounding behaviors, such as pollination, parasitism, mimicry, bioluminescence, and migration.

As a lover of nature, compiling a list of insects was a task that I took very seriously. I wanted to create a guide that would inspire others to appreciate the incredible diversity of insect life. After countless hours of research and verification, I came up with a comprehensive and beautifully illustrated list.

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

79 Insects That Start With M

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

Macao Paper Wasp

This stunning wasp, scientifically known as Polistes chinensis, is a vibrant yellow and black with distinctive long legs. Native to Southeast Asia, it has adapted well to urban environments and is now found in cities across the world. The Macao Paper Wasp is known for its unique nest-building behavior, where it creates an intricate paper nest made from chewed wood pulp. They can be found in shaded areas during the day, particularly under eaves and roofs. These wasps are largely harmless unless provoked, and even then, their stings are not typically severe. They feed on nectar and insects, making them an important part of our ecosystem.

Madeira Cockroach

The Madeira Cockroach, also known as Leucophaea maderae, is a common pest in tropical and subtropical areas. These large, brown cockroaches have a glossy shell and are equipped with wings that allow them to fly short distances. Madeira Cockroaches seek out warm, moist environments like bathrooms and kitchens, where they can feed on decaying plant matter and other organic material. While they are not dangerous to humans, they can spread disease and allergens. Unfortunately, they are incredibly difficult to eradicate once an infestation has begun.

Madeira Mealybug

The Madeira Mealybug, or Phenacoccus madeirensis, is a small, sap-sucking insect that feeds on plant sap. Typically found on citrus, olive, and avocado trees, these insects cause yellowing of leaves and a stunted growth effect on the plant. They produce a white, powdery substance that covers their bodies and acts as a protective coating. Madeira Mealybugs do well in warm, dry environments, where they can reproduce rapidly, leaving farmers struggling to combat the infestation. Insecticides can help to control the population, but sanitation practices are critical in preventing Mealybugs from taking over your garden.

Magnolia Scale

The Magnolia Scale, or Neolecanium cornuparvum, is an insect that feeds on Magnolia trees. They are particularly abundant in the southeastern United States but can be found all over the world. The female Magnolia Scale is incredibly large, up to an inch long, and emits a sweet odor that attracts ants. These scales damage the tree by sucking sap from the branch, leading to stunted growth and leaf yellowing. They can be controlled with systemic insecticides or manual removal, but it is essential to catch them early before they cause permanent damage.

Mahogany Bark Weevil

The Mahogany Bark Weevil, also known as Stenopelmus rufinasus, is a small beetle that feeds on the bark of Mahogany trees. It can be found throughout Central and South America, where it causes significant damage to commercial mahogany plantations. These weevils create small holes through the bark, allowing fungus and other pests to enter the tree, causing it to weaken and eventually die. Prevention and control measures include frequent tree inspections, chemical treatments, and proper tree management practices.

Mahogany Leafminer

The Mahogany Leafminer, or Conopomorpha cramerella, is a small moth larva that feeds on the leaves of Mahogany trees. The damage caused by these pests will appear as elongated white blotches on the leaf, and the affected part of the leaf will eventually brown and die. These pests can be controlled by pruning or removing affected leaves, natural predators such as parasitoid wasps, and chemical treatments if necessary.

Mahogany Webworm

The Mahogany Webworm, or Ecdytolopha insiticiana, is a small larval moth that feeds on Mahogany trees, causing leaf damage. These moths create webbing to protect themselves while they are feeding and pupating, often leading to a webbed appearance on trees. While they are not particularly harmful to the tree’s health, they can be unsightly and impact the tree’s aesthetics. Natural predators, manual web removal, and insecticides can all help control this pest.

Maize Billbug

The Maize Billbug, also known as Sphenophorus maidis, is a pest most commonly found in maize or cornfields. The adult billbug will feed on the plant’s stem, causing it to wilt and eventually die. While the adult billbug does some damage, it is the larvae that cause the most destruction. These larvae are white, grub-like creatures that will feed on the plant’s roots, causing significant damage to the plant and eventually killing it. Chemical treatments are the most effective method of control for this pest.

Maize Weevil

The Maize Weevil, or Sitophilus zeamais, is a small beetle that feeds on maize or corn. Adult Maize Weevils will create small holes in the kernel, laying an egg inside. As the larva grows, it feeds on the inside of the kernel, causing it to rot and be inedible. Maize Weevils can be found in stored maize products like flour and cornmeal, leading to significant commercial losses. The best way to control these pests is through proper storage measures like refrigeration and fumigation.

Mango Bark Beetle

The Mango Bark Beetle, or Hypocryphalus mangiferae, is a pest that burrows into the bark of Mango trees. These beetles primarily attack trees that are already damaged or stressed, creating small holes in the bark that can cause cankers and tissue damage. This damage can lead to the death of the tree in severe cases. The best way to prevent Mango Bark Beetle infestations is by keeping Mango trees healthy and properly pruned.

Mango Bud Mite

Mango Bud Mites, or Aceria mangiferae, are tiny arachnids that feed on the buds and leaves of Mango trees. These pests cause distorted growth, browning of leaves, and blackening of the fruit. Mango Bud Mites prefer hot, dry climates, making them particularly prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. While it can be challenging to control Mango Bud Mites, proper irrigation practices and pruning of infested twigs can help prevent outbreaks.

Mango Flower Beetle

The Mango Flower Beetle, or Protaetia brevitarsis, is a species of beetle that feeds on the flowers of Mango trees. These beetles can be identified by their bright green and black coloring and are often seen swarming around Mango trees during the blooming season. While they are not particularly harmful to the tree, excessive swarming can lead to fruit drop due to disturbed pollination. Traps can be used to control adult populations, and insecticides can be used on newly emerged larvae.

Mango Shoot Caterpillar

The Mango Shoot Caterpillar, or Penicillaria jocosatrix, is the larval stage of a small moth that feeds on Mango trees. These caterpillars can cause significant damage by burrowing into the tips of young shoots and feeding on the interior tissue. This can cause the shoots to wilt and eventually die. Infestations can be controlled through manual removal or chemical treatments.

Mango Spider Mite

The Mango Spider Mite, or Oligonychus mangiferus, is a tiny mite that feeds on Mango leaves. These pests cause tiny yellow spots on the leaves and can cause premature defoliation. Mango Spider Mites prefer hot, dry environments, making them challenging to control in tropical and subtropical regions. Horticulturists can use predatory mites to control Mango Spider Mite populations.

Mango Weevil

The Mango Weevil, or Sternochetus mangiferae, is a destructive pest of Mango trees. These weevils prefer to feed on the fruit of the tree, causing significant damage and making it inedible. They can be identified by the small holes they create in the fruit and the presence of black, rotting areas. Control methods include handpicking of infested fruit, insecticides, and proper pruning practices.

Manzanita Leafgall Aphid

The Manzanita Leafgall Aphid, or Tamalia coweni, is a species of aphid that feeds on the leaves and twigs of Manzanita trees. These pests cause the leaves to deform and curl when they are feeding, creating a galled or balled appearance. While the damage is primarily cosmetic, heavy infestations can cause damage to the tree’s growth. Manzanita Leafgall Aphids can be controlled through manual removal or insecticidal treatments.

Maple Bladdergall Mite

The Maple Bladdergall Mite, or Vasates quadripedes, is a tiny arachnid that feeds on the leaves of Maple trees. These pests cause blister-like growths on the underside of the leaves, creating a mottled and deformed appearance. While infestations can cause damage to the tree’s growth, it is often not serious enough to warrant treatment. Regular irrigation and pruning practices can help prevent infestation.

Maple Callus Borer

The Maple Callus Borer, or Synanthedon acerni, is a species of clearwing moth that feeds on the bark of Maple trees. These pests create small holes through the bark, leaving distinctive sawdust-like material behind. The damage caused by Maple Callus Borers can lead to weakened trees, allowing other pests and pathogens to easily infect the tree. Control methods include manual removal, trunk sprays, and biological control agents.

Maple Leafcutter

The Maple Leafcutter, or Paracolletia flavipes, is a kind of bee that feeds on the leaves of Maple trees. These pests create circular cut-outs in the leaves, creating a distinctive hole pattern. While the damage caused by Maple Leafcutters is typically not severe, they can be an unsightly nuisance. The best way to manage these pests is through careful pruning and sanitation practices.

Maple Petiole Borer

The Maple Petiole Borer, or Schizura concinna, is a species of caterpillar that feeds on the petioles of Maple leaves. These pests create significant damage to the petiole, causing the leaf to wilt and eventually die. Heavy infestations can lead to significant damage to the tree. Control methods include manual removal and chemical treatments.

Maple Trumpet Skeletonizer

This insect is commonly found on maple trees and is known for its trumpet-shaped skeleton. They feed on the leaves and can cause significant damage to the tree if not controlled.

Margined Blister Beetle

This beetle is known for its bright, vibrant coloration and can often be found on plants and flowers, feeding on the nectar. However, be careful as they can release a poisonous substance if threatened.

Maricopa Harvester Ant

These ants are found in the southwestern United States and are known for their ability to harvest and store seeds in their nests. They play an important role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds and helping with soil aeration.

Marigold Fruit Fly

These small, yellow flies are commonly found around marigold plants and feed on the flowers. They can be a nuisance to gardeners but generally do not cause significant damage to the plants.

Marsh Slug

This slug is typically found in wetland habitats and feeds on decaying plant matter. Its slimy mucus provides protection from predators.

Masked Hunter

This insect is a type of assassin bug and is known for its unique camouflage markings. They feed on other insects and can be a helpful addition to a garden as a natural pest control.

Mcdaniel Spider Mite

This tiny spider mite can be found on a variety of plants and can cause damage by feeding on the leaves. They reproduce quickly, making them difficult to control without intervention.

Meadow Plant Bug

This plant bug is commonly found in meadows and feeds on a variety of plants, including clovers and grasses. They play an important role in the ecosystem as pollinators.

Meadow Spittlebug

This insect is known for the foamy, white substance it produces while feeding on plants. While they can cause minor damage to the plants, they generally do not pose a significant threat.

Meal Moth

This common household pest feeds on dry goods in pantries and can be difficult to control. Proper food storage and regular cleaning can help prevent infestations.

Mealy Plum Aphid

This aphid is commonly found on plum trees and can cause significant damage to the leaves and fruit. They reproduce quickly, making them difficult to control without intervention.

Mealybug Destroyer

This beetle is a natural predator of mealybugs and can be used as a form of biological control in gardens. They feed on the mealybugs and can significantly reduce their population.

Mediterranean Flour Moth

This moth is a common pest in flour mills and can infest stored grains and flour in homes. Proper storage and cleaning can help prevent infestations.

Mediterranean Fruit Fly

This fly is known for its destructive impact on fruit crops and is a major agricultural pest. They reproduce quickly, making them difficult to control without intervention.

Mediterranean Pine Engraver

This bark beetle is known for its destruction of pine trees by burrowing into the wood and disrupting the tree’s ability to transport nutrients. They can cause significant damage to forests and tree plantations.

Mediterranean Recluse Spider

This venomous spider is found in the Mediterranean region and can cause severe skin necrosis if bitten. They typically hide in dark, isolated areas and are not aggressive towards humans.

Mediterranean Tamarisk Beetle

This beetle is commonly used as a form of biological control of tamarisk plants, an invasive species in the United States. They feed on the leaves and can significantly reduce the population of the plant.

Melastoma Borer

This beetle feeds on a variety of plants and can cause significant damage to crops and ornamental plants. They can be difficult to control and prevent infestations.

Melon Fly

This fly is a major pest of melon crops and can cause significant damage to the fruit. They reproduce quickly, making them difficult to control without intervention.

Melon Thrips

This thrips feeds on a variety of plants, including melons, and can cause significant damage to the leaves and fruit. They can be difficult to control and prevent infestations.

Melonworm

This caterpillar is a major pest of melon crops and can cause significant damage to the leaves and fruit. They can be difficult to control and prevent infestations.

Merchant Grain Beetle

This beetle is a common household pest and is known for infesting stored grain and flour products. Proper food storage and cleaning can help prevent infestations.

Mexican Bean Beetle

This insect is a major pest of bean crops and can cause significant damage to the leaves and beans. They reproduce quickly, making them difficult to control without intervention.

Mexican Bean Weevil

This weevil is a major pest of bean crops and can cause significant damage to the seeds. They can be difficult to control and prevent infestations.

Mexican Black Scale

This scale insect feeds on a variety of plants, including citrus and avocado trees, and can cause significant damage to the leaves and fruit. They can be difficult to control and prevent infestations.

Mexican Corn Rootworm

This beetle is a major pest of corn crops and can cause significant damage to the roots. They can be difficult to control and prevent infestations.

Mexican Fruit Fly

This fly is a major pest of fruit crops and can cause significant damage to the fruit. They reproduce quickly, making them difficult to control without intervention.

Mexican Lac Scale

This scale insect feeds on a variety of plants, including cactus and agave, and can cause significant damage to the leaves. They can be difficult to control and prevent infestations.

Mexican Leafroller

This caterpillar is a major pest of citrus crops and can cause significant damage to the leaves and fruit. They can be difficult to control and prevent infestations.

Mexican Mealybug

This mealybug is a major pest of a variety of crops and ornamental plants and can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems. They reproduce quickly, making them difficult to control without intervention.

Mexican Rice Borer

The Mexican Rice Borer is a small insect that bores into sugarcane and rice plants, causing significant damage to the crops. This pest was first discovered in Texas in 1980 and has since spread to other states in the southern U.S.

Migratory Grasshopper

Migratory Grasshoppers are known for their striking appearance and tendency to travel in large swarms, devouring vegetation along the way. These insects are found in western North America and play an important role in the ecosystem.

Mile-a-minute Weevil

The Mile-a-minute Weevil is a tiny insect that feeds on the leaves of plants and can cause significant damage to crops. This pest is native to Asia and was accidentally introduced to North America in the 1930s.

Milfoil Weevil

The Milfoil Weevil is a small insect that feeds on Eurasian watermilfoil, an invasive aquatic plant that can cause problems in lakes and other bodies of water. This insect is often used as a biological control agent to manage the growth of the plant.

Mimosa Webworm

The Mimosa Webworm is a small moth whose larvae feed on the leaves of mimosa trees. While this pest can cause damage to the trees, it is not considered a major threat to their survival.

Mining Scale

Mining Scales are tiny insects that feed on the sap of plants and can cause significant damage to crops and ornamental plants. These pests are typically controlled with insecticides or biological control methods.

Mint Aphid

Mint Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of mint plants, causing damage to the leaves and reducing the plant’s overall health. These pests can be controlled with insecticides or by introducing natural predators.

Minute Egg Parasite

Minute Egg Parasites are tiny wasps that parasitize the eggs of other insects, including moths, beetles, and true bugs. These natural enemies are often used as a biological control agent to manage pest populations.

Minute Pirate Bug

Minute Pirate Bugs are small insects that feed on other insects, including aphids, thrips, and mites. These pests can be beneficial to gardeners and farmers, as they help control pest populations.

Mission Blue

The Mission Blue is a butterfly species that is native to California and is named after the area where it was first discovered. This butterfly is considered to be endangered due to habitat loss and other factors.

Modoc Budworm

The Modoc Budworm is a pest that can cause significant damage to trees and other plants, particularly conifers. This insect is found in western North America and is often controlled with insecticides.

Mold Mite

Mold Mites are tiny insects that feed on mold and other organic matter. While these pests are not harmful to humans, they can be a nuisance in homes and other buildings.

Monarch Butterfly

The Monarch Butterfly is a well-known species that is famous for its long-distance migrations and beautiful appearance. These butterflies are found in North America and play an important role in pollination.

Monkeypod Moth

The Monkeypod Moth is a species of moth that is found in Hawaii and feeds on the leaves of monkeypod trees. While this pest can cause damage to the trees, it is not considered a major threat to their survival.

Monkeypod Roundheaded Borer

The Monkeypod Roundheaded Borer is a wood-boring beetle that can cause significant damage to trees, particularly those that are stressed or weakened. This insect is found in Hawaii and other parts of the world.

Monterey Pine Weevil

The Monterey Pine Weevil is a pest that feeds on the bark of pine trees, causing damage to the trunk and branches. This insect is found in California and can be controlled with insecticides.

Mormon Cricket

The Mormon Cricket is a species of cricket that is found in western North America and can cause significant damage to crops and other plants. These insects are often controlled with insecticides or biological control methods.

Morningglory Leafminer

The Morningglory Leafminer is a small insect that feeds on the leaves of morningglory plants, causing damage to the foliage. While this pest can be a nuisance to gardeners, it is not considered a major threat to plant health.

Morrill Lace Bug

The Morrill Lace Bug is a small insect that feeds on the sap of hackberry trees, causing damage to the leaves and reducing the plant’s overall health. This pest is found in North America and can be controlled with insecticides or biological control methods.

Morrison Bumble Bee

The Morrison Bumble Bee is a species of bee that is native to North America and plays an important role in pollination. This bee is found in alpine and subalpine habitats and is considered to be at risk due to habitat loss and other factors.

Mossyrose Gall Wasp

The Mossyrose Gall Wasp is a type of wasp that forms galls on the stems of mossyrose plants. While these galls can be unsightly, they are not considered a major threat to the health of the plant.

Mottled Tortoise Beetle

The Mottled Tortoise Beetle is a species of beetle that is found in North America and feeds on the leaves of plants, causing damage to the foliage. These beetles are often controlled with insecticides or other methods.

Mountain Leafhopper

The Mountain Leafhopper is a small insect that feeds on the sap of trees and other plants, causing damage to the foliage. This pest is found in western North America and can be controlled with insecticides or other methods.

Mountain Pine Beetle

The Mountain Pine Beetle is a pest that can cause significant damage to pine trees, particularly in western North America. This beetle is often controlled with insecticides or by other means.

Mountain Pine Coneworm

The Mountain Pine Coneworm is a pest that feeds on the cones of pine trees, causing damage to the seed production of the tree. These insects can be controlled with insecticides or biological control methods.

Mountain-ash Sawfly

The Mountain-ash Sawfly is a pest that feeds on the leaves of mountain-ash trees, causing damage to the foliage. This insect is found in North America and can be controlled with insecticides or other methods.

Mourningcloak Butterfly

The Mourningcloak Butterfly is a species of butterfly that is found in North America and is known for its striking appearance. These butterflies are common in wooded areas and play an important role in pollination.

Mulberry Whitefly

The Mulberry Whitefly is a small insect that feeds on the leaves of mulberry trees, causing damage to the foliage. This pest is found in North America and can be controlled with insecticides or other methods.

Mullein Thrips

Mullein Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the flowers and leaves of mullein plants. While these pests can cause damage to the plant, they are not considered a major threat to its survival.

Wrapping Up

And that’s our list of M insects.

I spent countless hours researching and combing through various sources to create a list of insects. I read countless articles, watched numerous videos, and even consulted with experts to ensure the accuracy of my information.

Insects have been around for more than 400 million years, making them one of the earth’s oldest living creatures. While their longevity is impressive, the current decline of insect populations is highly alarming. Insects are under threat from various human activities, including habitat destruction, deforestation, and climate change. Ecologists warn that the widespread disappearance of insects can lead to catastrophic ecosystem collapse, including a decline in food production and a decrease in birds and insectivores that depend on them for nutrition. While the future of insects is uncertain, we can all take small steps towards insect conservation, including taking care of our gardens, steering clear from chemical pesticides, and supporting organizations that advocate for insect protection and conservation.

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