Aphid identification

Genus Anoecia [Anoeciinae]

Medium-sized aphids which may be winged or wingless. Wingless adults (shown here) are greenish-gray or gray with a dark sclerotic dorsal abdominal plate. The winged form (see species overview) has a characteristic dark posteriodorsal abdominal patch, a white patch and a large black pterostigmal spot on the forewing. Young nymphs are white or cream in colour.

About 24 species in North America, Europe and eastern Asia. Some host alternate from dogwood (Cornaceae) to roots of grasses (Poaceae), with the oviparae laying their eggs on the bark of the trunk. Other species live year round on the roots of grasses (Poaceae) or sedges (Cyperaceae).

Species Overview

Very small to rather large aphids. Adult viviparae may be winged or wingless. The body is broadly oval in shape, never very elongate. The dorsal cuticle is membranous with a variable amount of dark sclerotic markings. Siphunculi are more or less cylindrical or tapering, never distinctly swollen. The cauda is usually more or less elongate. The legs are variably pigmented, but rarely entirely dark.

There are about 500 species on a great variety of hosts. Some are host specific - others are found on a great variety of different plants, but never on sedges (Cyperaceae) and very rarely on grasses (Poaceae). Many species host alternate and many are ant attended. Most species retain a sexual stage in the life cycle, but some species have populations that reproduce viviparously year round. Many species are important crop pests.

Species overview

Genus Hyalopterus [Aphidini]

Small to medium sized elongate aphids, the adult viviparae of which may be winged or wingless. They are usually pale green mottled with darker green and most are covered with a white waxy meal. Some aphids on the summer host may be dark pink rather than green. The antennae are shorter than the body, and the siphunculi are very short, thicker and darker towards their tips. The cauda is markedly longer than the siphunculi.

A small genus with only 3 species. They may retain the sexual stage in the life cycle and alternate between plum (Prunus spp.) in winter/spring and common reed (Phragmites) in summer, or may live year round on either host. They are not attended by ants. One species is an important pest of plum trees which are affected by fungi growing on the honeydew-coated leaves.

Species overview

Genus Melanaphis [Aphidini]

Small to medium-sized to elongate oval or pear-shaped aphids closely related to Rhopalosiphum aphids. The siphunculi are shorter than the cauda. The abdomen has dark dorsal markings. The winged forms have dark forewing veins with the media vein twice-branched.

There are about 25 species of Melanaphis aphids. The three European species are associated with Rosaceae and Poaceae, whilst the remaining East Asian species are associated with Miscanthus or Arundinaria.

Species overview

Species Overview

Genus Ovatomyzus [Macrosiphini]

A genus of very small fragile pale aphids the adult viviparae of which may be winged or wingless. The characteristics of the genus are intermediate between Ovatus and Myzus. The apterae have well developed antennal tubercles with slightly diverging inner margins. The antennae are as long as the body or longer with a very long terminal process. The siphunculi are long, slender, cylindrical or slightly swollen. The cauda is tongue shaped, slightly constricted near the base.

There are 3 species worldwide. Ovatomyzus have lost the sexual stage in their life cycle, and feed all year round on plants in the mint (Lamiaceae) and borage (Boraginaceae) families.

Species Overview

Genus Ovatus [Macrosiphini]

Small to medium sized greenish aphids, the adult viviparae of which may be winged or wingless. Antennae are curved and longer than the body. Antennal tubercles are well developed with two additional bumps on head The siphunculi are longer than the cauda. The winged forms have no black central abdominal patch.

There are about 10 palaearctic species of Ovatus, three of which host-alternate between hawthorn and Apple (Rosaceae: Pyroidea) and mints (Labiatae), while the others live all-year-round on the former secondary hosts. They are not attended by ants. One species is a pest of mint.

Species Overview

Genus Paramyzus [Macrosiphini]

Paramyzus are rather small pale shiny aphids resembling, but not necessarily closely related to, Myzus aphids. Paramyzus have well developed steep-sided antennal tubercles and long antennae, with a long terminal process. Their apterae have rather large secondary rhinaria on antennal segment III. Antennal and dorsal body hairs are very short. The apical rostral segment (RIV+V) is much longer than the second hind tarsal segment (HTII). The siphunculi are rather long and straight and slightly swollen with a distinct flange. The cauda is short and tongue shaped and bears 4-6 hairs.

There are three Palaearctic species of Paramyzus, two which feed on umbellifers (Apiaceae) and one of which feeds on cinquefoils and strawberries (Rosaceae). They do not host alternate, but live year-round on their respective hosts. Paramyzus are not attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Phorodon [Macrosiphini]

Adult pale green to yellowish green aphids with darker green longitudinal stripes. The adult viviparae may be winged or wingless. Aphids are medium-sized on winter hosts (2.0 - 2.6mm long), but small on summer hosts. They have characteristic pointed projections on the inside of the antennal tubercles. The siphunculi are pale, medium length, thicker at their bases and slightly curved outwards at their tips. The cauda is short, pale and blunt. Winged forms have has a black patch of fused cross bars on the upper surface of the abdomen.

A small genus of 4 species in Europe, north Africa, and south-west Asia and introduced to North America and New Zealand. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle and alternate between the primary host of blackthorn and plum (Prunaceae) and the secondary host, hops (Cannabidaceae). They are not attended by ants. One species is the main pest on hops causing damage directly and through virus transmission.

Species Overview

Genus Pleotrichophorus [Macrosiphini]

Pleotrichophorus are medium-sized pale spindle-shaped aphids. They have fairly low antennal tubercles and a moderately developed median frontal tubercle. The antennae have a very long terminal process, and both apterae and alatae have secondary rhinaria on some of the antennal segments. The terminal (fused 4th and 5th) rostral segment is pointed or stiletto-shaped. The apterae have a membranous dorsum, with numerous thick, rather short fan-shaped or capitate hairs in 2-3 irregular transverse rows on each segment. The siphunculi are long and slender, sometimes slightly expanded at the apex with a small flange, and the cauda is finger-shaped, tongue shaped or triangular.

Alates have dark intersegmental sclerites and dusky marginal sclerites. The veins on the forewings are conspicuously dark-bordered.

There are about 60 species of Pleotrichophorus worldwide, mostly in the Americas, but with seven in Europe. They do not host alternate, but remain all year on members of the Asteraceae, especially those in the tribe Anthemideae. Pleotrichophorus aphids are not attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Plocamaphis [Macrosiphini]

Plocamaphis is a small genus comprising only five species. They are large rather sparsely hairy aphids, less hairy than Pterocomma aphids to which they are related. Plocamaphis are brown or yellowish brown, but the colour is usually masked by dense floculent wax. They have flangeless siphunculi.

Plocamaphis feed low down on the stems or on the roots of willow (Salix). They are not ant attended, but sometimes occur in mixed colonies with ant-attended species such as Tuberolachnus salignus.

Species overview

Image copyright Andy Brown, all rights reserved.

Genus Rhopalomyzus [Macrosiphini]

Medium-sized yellowish to black aphids, the adult viviparae of which may be winged or wingless. The head has well-developed antennal tubercles. Marginal tubercles are frequently present on the prothorax and abdominal segments 2-6. The siphunculi are swollen with a small, but well developed flange, slightly constricted just under the flange. The cauda is tongue-shaped and shorter than the siphunculus. Winged forms have head, thorax and dorsal abdominal cross bars or a large dorsal abdominal patch.

There are 9 species host alternating from honeysuckle (Lonicera) to grasses. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle overwintering as eggs on honeysuckle.

Species Overview

Genus Rhopalosiphoninus [Macrosiphini]

Medium sized aphids either with the frontal region of head adorned with small scabrous spinules, or with the abdominal dorsum is more or less sclerotic and pigmented. Apart from a constriction near the apex, the apical two thirds of the siphunculi are strongly and sharply swollen, the apical part before the flange with reticulate sculpturing. The cauda is short and triangular.

There are about 19 species living on a great variety of plants, including Labiatae, Rosaceae, Iridaceae, Araliaceae and Grossulariaceae. They often live in cryptic habitats near the ground. Some species host alternate but others remain on one host.

Species Overview

Genus Sitobion [Macrosiphini]

Medium-sized green to dull brownish-green or reddish-brown aphids, with blackish antennae. Adult viviparae may be winged or wingless. They typically have an intersegmental sclerotic pattern, but some species may have a more or less completely brownish sclerotic tergum. Siphunculi are rather long, blackish and sclerotic, with the apical part reticulated and a small but distinct flange. The cauda is pale, elongate and finger-shaped from half to nine-tenths as long as siphunculi.

A large genus of over 80 species worldwide. A few species alternate from Rosaceae to grasses, but the majority of species remain on grasses (Poaceae) all year. On grasses they may or may not have a sexual stage. Even within one species, clones may produce males and egg laying females in the autumn or only produce parthenogenetic females. They are not attended by ants. At least one species is a serious pest of cereals.

Species Overview

Genus Staegeriella [Macrosiphini]

Staegeriella are rather small greyish-green oval aphids. They have very low divergent antennal tubercles. The antennae are much shorter than the body, with the terminal process about twice as long as the base of the last segment. Dorsal body hairs are very short. The dorsal body cuticle is membranous apart from dusky transverse bars on abdominal tergites VII and VIII. The siphunculi are truncate, shorter than the cauda, and less than twice as long as their basal widths. The cauda is tongue- or finger-shaped. Alatae have pale marginal sclerites and dorsal cross bands on the posterior tergites.

There are only 1-2 species in the genus. Staegeriella necopinata is well known, but other possible species are so far unnamed. Staegeriella necopinata feeds on bedstraws (Galium species) and possibly Coprosma and/or woodruff (Asperula).

Species overview

Genus Staticobium [Macrosiphini]

Staticobium are medium to large aphids. The adult viviparae may be winged or wingless. In both apterae and alates the lateral frontal tubercles are broad, low and smooth. Their antennae have a relatively long terminal process with a few rhinaria on segment III. Spiracles are covered by tubercle-like opercula, an adaptation to regular immersion. The siphunculi are more or less cylindrical , tapering, sclerotic and pigmented with reticulation below a small flange. Staticobium aphids are morphologically similar to Macrosiphoniella, but the antesiphuncular sclerites are absent. They are also similar to Sitobion aphids, but the dorsum is not completely sclerotic, pleurospinal sclerites are absent from the alate and the reticulate area on the siphunculus is larger than in Sitobion.

Staticobium feed on members of the Plumbaginaceae. They are not visited by ants. The distribution is holarctic with 12 species worldwide.

Species Overview

Genus Tubaphis [Macrosiphini]

Tubaphis are small pale spindle-shaped aphids. The apterae have fairly well developed, widely separated antennal tubercles, with steep sided inner faces. The antennae are as long as the body or longer, with an unusually thin basal part to the last segment. The hairs on the dorsal body and antennae are very short and blunt, and the dorsal cuticle is markedly wrinkled. The siphunculi are cylindrical, thin but with a broader base and with a constriction below the apical flange. The cauda is short, tongue shaped, has a distinctive constriction at the base and bears 4 hairs. The alates do not have a dark abdominal patch, but do have numerous secondary rhinaria on the third abdominal segment, as well as a few on other antennal segments.

There are only 2 Tubaphis species worldwide: Tubaphis clematophila and Tubaphis ranunculina. Tubaphis live without host alternation on buttercups and/or clematis (Ranunculaceae).

Species overview

Genus Uroleucon [Macrosiphini]

Medium-sized to rather large aphids. Adult viviparae may be winged or wingless. The siphunculi are long with a zone of polygonal reticulation occupying the subapical 0.15-0.4 of length. The dorsal hairs are not thick and distinctly capitate.

A large genus of 226 species distributed worldwide associated almost entirely with daisies (Asteraceae) and bellflowers (Campanulaceae). They do not host alternate, but usually have a sexual stage in their life cycle. Some species may be ant attended.

Species Overview

Genus Utamphorophora [Macrosiphini]

Utamphorophora are medium to large aphids with the antennal tubercles moderately developed, their inner side parallel or diverging with processes. The antennae are about as long as the body or longer, with inconspicuous hairs. Apterae are with or without secondary rhinaria. Their siphunculi are rather long and more or less swollen. The cauda is elongate, constricted near the middle.

There are 13 species in the world, most of them in America and East Asia. The ancestor of the group probably host alternated between Rosaceae and grasses.

Species overview

Genus Wahlgreniella [Macrosiphini]

Rather large aphids which are similar to Amphorophora in many respects, but have fewer caudal hairs. Adult viviparae may be winged or wingless. The antennal tubercles are well developed with diverging or parallel inner sides. Their antennae are rather long and thin. The siphunculi are long and swollen with no reticulation and a distinct flange. The cauda is tongue shaped.

A small genus with only 6 species in the world. Most live on plants of the heather family (Ericacaceae), but with one on rose (Rosaceae) in North America. They do not host alternate, except perhaps Wahlgreniella nervata which may alternate from Arbutus to Rosa. They are not ant attended.

Species Overview

Genus Betulaphis [Calaphidini]

Small, rather flat oval aphids with short 6-segmented antennae. Adult viviparae may be winged or wingless with a short, conical cauda and a bilobed anal plate. Oviparae have dark dorsal markings and the posterior abdomen is extended as an egg-laying organ. Males are wingless with extensive dark dorsal markings.

A genus of 6 or 7 species rather evenly distributed through the holarctic usually feeding on the undersides of birch (Betula spp.) leaves. They have a sexual stage in their life cycle but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Calaphis [Calaphidini]

Delicate pale-coloured aphids with rather long thin legs. The antennal tubercles are well-developed and the antennae are longer than the body. They sometimes have distinctive markings and/or dark wing veins, and the radial sector in the forewing is absent or indistinct. In some species all viviparae are alate but others have both apterous and alate viviparae.

There are about 15 species, 11 of which are in North America, two are European and one is east Asian. All except one live on birch (Betula spp.). They have a sexual stage in their life cycle but do not host alternate and are usually not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Callipterinella [Calaphidini]

Aphids are small to medium-sized and the viviparae may be winged or wingless. They are very variable in colour from green to brown, yellow or reddish commonly with a brown vertex to the head and usually other dark dorsal markings. The body is covered with long strong hairs and the antennae are shorter than the body. The cauda is constricted and knobbed, and the siphunculi are dark with rows of minute spinules. Winged forms have the wing venation strongly marked.

A genus of three species all of which live on birch (Betula) leaves or growing shoots. Colonies may be dispersed or aggregated. They have a sexual stage in their life cycle, but do not host alternate. They are usually attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Clethrobius [Calaphidini]

Large hairy brown aphids. All adult viviparae and males are winged; the ovipara is wingless. The antennae are shorter than the body. The abdominal dorsum has pigmentation confined to marginal sclerites plus a few bands. There are also bands of light wax pulverulence on the abdomen. The siphunculi are short and truncate, and the cauda is knobbed.

Three or four palaearctic species living on twigs and young branches of alder (Alnus) and birch (Betula) species. They have a sexual stage in their life cycle, but do not host alternate. They may be attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Crypturaphis [Calaphidini]

Wingless females are dorsoventrally flattened and have peculiar projections on the head and prothorax. The antennae are shorter than the body. The apterae resemble coccids rather than aphids. Alates have a more typical 'aphid appearance'.

This genus has only one species, which lives on the leaves of Italian alder (Alnus cordata). It has a sexual stage in its life cycle, but does not host alternate. It is not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Euceraphis [Calaphidini]

Rather large active but fragile aphids with long thin legs. All adults apart from oviparae are winged insects. They secrete a bluish white wax, often in the form of tufts on their legs. The antennae are usually longer than the body. The birch-feeding species may have black dorsal abdominal markings. The cauda is knobbed and the anal plate is rounded. The oviparae are large, apterous, yellowish to dark brown with dark dorsal abdominal markings, and with the posterior abdominal segments extended into an ovipositor-like structure.

A genus of 6 or more species living on the young shoots or the underside of birch and alder (Betulaceae). Adults may be found as accidentals on many plants besides their true hosts. They have a sexual stage in their life cycle, but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants. One species is considered a pest of ornamental birch varieties.

Species Overview

Genus Monaphis [Calaphidini]

Very large aphids with a body length of 3.3 - 4.3 mm. All adult viviparae are winged. They are robust, ventrally flattened, green aphids with very long thick black antennae and a conspicuous elongate dark pterostigma in the forewing.

There is only one species in this genus which lives solitarily on birch ( Betula spp.) in Europe and much of Asia; also recorded from the USA. It has a sexual stage in is life cycle, but does not host alternate and is not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Symydobius [Calaphidini]

Medium to large, rather shiny dark brown aphids. Both winged and wingless adult viviparous females occur. Siphunculi (when present) are small and truncate. Antennae are dark or with the basal half of the 4th and 5th segments conspicuously paler. Alates (shown here) have the wing veins brownish bordered and usually have broad dark transverse bands on each tergite. Males are wingless, and oviparae have the posterior abdominal segments extended into an ovipositor-like structure.

Seven species forming colonies on the branches and twigs of birch and alder (Betulaceae). They have a sexual stage in their life cycle, but do not host alternate. They are always attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Appendiseta [Panaphidini]

This North American genus is related to Pterocallis. They differ from that genus in having two pairs of anterior prothoracic marginal hairs and a small hair arising from the siphunculus, on the ventral side near its base.

The genus has only one species which feeds on Robinia (black locust).

Species Overview

Genus Chromaphis [Panaphidini]

Small pale yellow aphids with all viviparae winged. The antennae are short and there are small pairs of spinal spots on abdominal tergites 4-5. The siphunculi are truncate conical and flanged.

There are just 2 species in this genus feeding on the undersides of Walnut (Juglans spp.) leaves. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Ctenocallis [Panaphidini]

Ctenocallis are small to medium size aphids, with the body of the aptera bearing long finger-like marginal backwardly directing processes. The siphunculi are short, truncate, and are situated at the base of the marginal processes on abdominal tergite VI.

The Ctenocallis genus contains only three species, all feeding on members of the Fabaceae. Each has its own distribution in Europe and North Africa (Atlantic, Pannonian and Mediterranean).

Species overview

Genus Eucallipterus [Panaphidini]

Rather small aphids with all viviparae winged. They are active, delicate aphids with long thin legs. The antennae are about as long as the body and they have truncate siphunculi, a knobbed cauda and a deeply cleft anal plate. The dark spots on the wings are conspicuous.

Possibly three species worldwide feeding on the undersides of leaves of lime (Tilia spp.). They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Hoplocallis [Panaphidini]

Hoplocallis are small aphids related to Myzocallis. All adult viviparae are winged. Unlike Myzocallis aphids the antennal terminal process is always shorter than the base of the sixth antennal segment. Also the head and prothorax have a median longitudinal pale stripe extending backward from the median ocellus between bands of pigment. The pronotum has anterior and posterior spinal and marginal clusters of small hairs. The abdomen has paired dark spinal sclerites that are fused posteriorly across midline on some or all of the tergites.

There are four Hoplocallis species in Europe and Asia, which all feed on oak (Quercus).

Species Overview

Genus Myzocallis [Panaphidini]

Small, delicate, usually yellowish aphids with a knobbed cauda and bilobed anal plate, Immatures usually have long, capitate dorsal hairs. Adult viviparae are all winged, except in a few species. The forewings are variably pigmented, but there is generally at least a dark spot at the base of the pterostigma.

About 40 species living on oaks and chestnuts (Fagaceae). They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Panaphis [Panaphidini]

These are large distinctive aphids with short antennae only about 0.3-0.4 times the body length. All viviparous females are winged. The wings have the veins dark bordered with dark spots near the wing margin. The abdomen has dark marginal sclerites, broad dark bands across tergites 3-7, broken ones across tergites l - 2 and a small trapezoid sclerite on tergite 8. The siphunculi are short, truncate and without a flange. The cauda has an elongate oval knob.

There are 3 described species all living on walnut (Juglandaceae). They typically feed along the midrib of the upper surface of the leaves. They are closely related and could perhaps be geographic variants of a single species. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants. They can be a serious pest on walnuts

Species Overview

Genus Pterocallis [Panaphidini]

Small pale aphids. The antennae are usually somewhat shorter than the body with a short terminal process. The siphunculi are short and truncated and the cauda is knobbed. Apterous viviparae occur more commonly than in most Calaphidinae.

A genus of thirteen species associated especially with alder (Alnus and hazel (Corylus) in the Betulaceae. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate. They are usually dispersed on the undersides of leaves, and are mostly not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Takecallis [Panaphidini]

Small delicate narrow-bodied aphids with a knobbed cauda. The clypeus bears a forward directed tubercle, and the ratio of the terminal process of the last antennal segment to its base is about 1. Usually all viviparae are alate.

Five species on bamboo (Bambuseae). The genus is oriental in origin, but several species are now widely distributed.

Species Overview

Genus Therioaphis [Panaphidini]

Therioaphis viviparae may be apterous or alate (all alate for one species). They are rather small to medium-sized yellowish aphids. The terminal process is slightly shorter to slightly longer than the basal part of antennal segment VI. The antennal hairs are shorter than basal diameter of antennal segment III. The rostrum is short, not reaching the middle coxae. The dorsal body hairs are situated on individual pigmented scleroites. The front coxae are very much enlarged relative to the middle and hind coxae. The siphunculi are stump-shaped, flangeless, and variably rugose, lying just anterodorsal to the marginal sclerite of tergite 6. The cauda is rather large, with an elongate knob. The sclerotic markings of wings and body of alatae are pale to darkish grey or brown, not black. The head of the alate has a ventral dark band running transversely between the inner margins of the compound eyes.

Therioaphis feed on members of the pea and bean family (Fabaceae). There are about 30 Therioaphis species, of which half are restricted to south-east Europe and the Middle East. Others are confined to northern Europe, and a few have a cosmopolitan distribution.

Species overview

Genus Tinocallis [Panaphidini]

Mostly small species. All viviparae are winged and usually have paired spinal and marginal tubercular processes. Some species have conspicuous black markings on dorsal body and/or forewings. The antennae are as long as or shorter than the body. The siphunculi are stump shaped and the cauda is knobbed.

There are about 18 species usually associated with elms (Ulmaceae), although species have also been described from Lythraceae and other families. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Tuberculatus [Panaphidini]

Mostly small species (usually body length 1.5 - 2.5 mm). All viviparae and males are winged and have one or more abdominal spinal tubercles. The antennae are as long or longer than the body. The siphunculi are short and truncate and the cauda is knobbed.

There are about 60 species of this genus feeding on oak and chestnut (Fagaceae). Some well-defined subgenera have a limited distribution. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Chaitophorus [Chaitophorini]

Very hairy, small to medium-sized aphids which may be wingless or winged. The dorsal cuticle of the wingless adults is largely sclerotized. The siphunculi are short and stump-shaped, and the cauda is usually knobbed. Winged forms often have dark segmental cross-bands and marginal sclerites.

There are about 90 species with individual species feeding on either poplar or willow species in the Salicaceae. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate and may be ant attended.

Species overview

Genus Periphyllus [Chaitophorini]

Medium-sized to large elongate oval or pear-shaped aphids which may be winged or wingless. The dorsum is mainly membranous (unsclerotized) but there are many small hair-bearing plates. The siphunculi are stump-shaped with a pronounced flange. The cauda at the tip of the abdomen is either rounded or tongue-shaped with a slight constriction. Antennal hairs are usually long and conspicuous.

There are about 42 species of Periphyllus aphids mostly living on maples and sycamore (Acer spp) in the Aceraceae. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate. Some species are usually ant-attended. They show seasonal polymorphism to cope with physiological changes in the host with several species having an aestivating nymphal stage which is often flattened and hairy.

Species overview

Genus Caricosipha [Siphini]

Caricosipha are flattened pear-shaped aphids, broadest about the level of tergite 4. The dorsum and most of the venter are blackish sclerotic, with abdominal tergites 1-7 fused into a solid carapace. The head capsule is fused with the pronotum; the mesonotum, metanotum and abdominal tergite 8 are free. The antennae are mainly pale and the antennal tubercles are very low. Antennal hairs are nearly all long. The compound eyes are very prominent and are sited on lateral extensions of the head. The rostrum does not reach the middle coxae, and its apical segment is blunt, slightly longer than its basal width and with convex sides. The siphunculi are pale, smooth,truncate conical or stump-shaped, with a marked flange. The cauda is slightly knobbed with 5-8 hairs. Alates have the dorsal carapace broken into segmental dark bars and marginal sclerites. There are secondary rhinaria only on antennal segment 3.

There is only one species in the genus Caricosipha paniculatae which feeds on greater tussock sedge (Carex paniculata) and the true fox sedge (Carex vulpina).

Species overview

Image copyright Stéphane Claerebout, all rights reserved.

Genus Laingia [Siphini]

Laingia are narrow-bodied aphids. They only differ from the related grass-feeding Atheroides in two respects:

• The siphunculi are on abdominal tergite 6, as opposed to tergite 5 in Atheroides.
• The dorsal carapace is membranous, as opposed to sclerotized in Atheroides.

The sole species within the Laingia genus mainly feeds on Ammophila arenaria (marram grass).

Species overview

Genus Sipha [Siphini]

Sipha are medium-sized oval aphids that have conspicuous spiny hairs. They have 5-segmented antennae and a sclerotic upper surface. The short siphunculi are stump-shaped. The four species of the nominate subgenus Sipha have a knobbed cauda, and the eight species of subgenus Rungsia have a broadly rounded cauda.

Sipha feed on grasses. Some Sipha species are largely restricted to particular genera or even species of grass, whilst others are polyphagous. Several species are restricted to wetland or coastal habitats.

Species overview

Image copyright Adam Polednicek, all rights reserved.

Genus Drepanosiphum [Drepanosiphini]

Medium-sized to large elongate long-legged aphids. The antennae are long and the siphunculi are long and tubular All viviparae and males are winged. The oviparae are large and wingless, with the end of the abdomen extended like an ovipositor.

A genus of eight species all living on the leaves of sycamore or maple (Aceraceae). They form spaced-out aggregations on the undersides of leaves in the shade. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host-alternate. They are not attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Subsaltusaphis [Thripsaphidini]

Subsaltusaphis are small to medium-sized long-bodied aphids. The empodial hairs are spatulate. Dorsal hairs are mostly very short and mushroom-shaped, with an incised "cap" so that they are stellate (=star-like) in dorsal view. The apterae lack secondary rhinaria. Alatae have a dark central abdominal patch on tergites 3-5, incised between segments.

There are 12 species of Subsaltusaphis in North America, Europe and Asia, all feeding on sedges (Carex species).

Species overview

Image copyright Thomas Legrand, all rights reserved.

Genus Colopha [Eriosomatini]

Colopha is a small aphid genus, related to the genus Kaltenbachiella. Apterae on the secondary host differ from Kaltenbachiella apterae in having the fore-tarsi parallel-sided, with a ventral hair arising from a distal protrusion. Alatae have a once-branched media in the fore wing and one oblique vein in the hind wing.

There are 6 Colopha species worldwide, all in the northern hemisphere. Three of these have a sexual stage, and host alternate from elm, where they live in cockscomb-like galls, to grasses or sedges, where they live on the roots or aerial parts. Three species have lost their primary host and their sexual stages and live parthenogenetically year-round on grasses and sedges.

Species overview

Image copyright Maria Fremlin, all rights reserved.

Genus Eriosoma [Eriosomatini]

Both winged and wingless aphids have rather conspicuous siphuncular pores with partially chitinized rims surrounded by a ring of hairs. The forewing of winged individuals usually has only one branch in the medial vein.Most stages are covered in a dense floculent wax.

There are about 35 species most of which host alternate between galls on elm (Ulmaceae) and secondary hosts such as apple (Rosaceae) and currants (Grossulariaceae). They have a sexual stage in the life cycle. They are not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Kaltenbachiella [Eriosomatini]

Kaltenbachiella are a genus of eight species related to Colopha and Tetraneura. But instead of producing a gall on the leaf lamina, first instar Kaltenbachiella fundatrices cause a gall near the base of leaf mid-rib. The hind wing of Kaltenbachiella alates has two oblique veins.

Most Kaltenbachiella use Ulmus as their primary host, their secondary host (where known) are mainly Lamiaceae.

Species overview

Image copyright Dr László Érsek, all rights reserved.

Genus Tetraneura [Eriosomatini]

Small aphids. Wingless forms have one-segmented tarsi and the winged forms have a simple, unbranched medial vein in the forewing. Wax gland plates may be present or absent.

About 30 species of which at least seven species host alternate between leaf galls on elm (Ulmaceae) and roots of grasses (Poaceae). They have a sexual stage in the life cycle. The fundatrices induce stalked, pouch-like red, yellow or green galls on the upper sides of leaves. They are not attended by ants.

Species Overview

Genus Aploneura [Fordini]

Aploneura are medium sized aphids. The apterae have very short 4- or 5-segmented antennae. Unlike most root aphids, Aploneura produce copious white wax and probably because of this are not attended by ants. The alatae have very short 6-segmented antennae, the third and fourth segments of which each bear bear a single large secondary rhinaria on the distal half. The wings of the alate are held flat against the abdomen when at rest.

There are only three species in the genus Aploneura. They host alternate betweeen galls on Pistacia and the roots of grasses and vines.

Species Overview

Genus Baizongia [Fordini]

Baizongia aphids produce large galls on their primary host, Pistacia species. In summer they host alternate to grasses where they feed on the roots. In northern areas the populations are anholocyclic on grass roots. The adult apterae on roots have well-developed wax pore-plates, much like Aploneura. The anal aperture is dorsal (as in Geoica) with the hairs on the anal plate and abdominal tergite VIII forming a trophobiotic organ to retain droplets of honeydew until they are removed by ants. The apterae have 5-segmented antennae and the alatae have 6-segmented antennae. These aphids, like for example Forda, Geoica, Paracletus, Prociphilus and some Trama, have no siphunculi. Baizongia alatae hold their wings roof-like when at rest, and the pterostigma has a dark central patch.

Very large populations of Baizongia develop in large, elongate horn-like galls on Pistacia species. Favoured hosts are Pistacea palaestina, Pistacea lentiscus and Pistaceia terebinthus in the Mediterranean, and Pistacea integerrima in northern India.

Species overview

Guest image copyright George Konstantinou, all rights reserved.

Genus Forda [Fordini]

These are medium-sized aphids. On the primary host they live in galls. The fundatrix initially forms a small temporary gall near the apex of the leaf, but her offspring move to the leaf margin where they form characteristic leaf-edge galls by folding and rolling the leaf margins. Emigrant alates have a dark head and thorax and a pale body. Apterae on the secondary host are often yellowish-white and plump-bodied and are not waxy.

About 10 species host alternating (in the Mediterranean region and south-west Asia) from pistacchio (Pistacia) to the roots of grasses and cereals. Outside the range of Pistacia, several species are known only from their secondary hosts. They are attended by ants on the secondary host and often live in ants' nests.

Species Overview

Image copyright www.aphotofauna.com, all rights reserved.

Genus Geoica [Fordini]

Geoica are small to medium-sized pale-coloured aphids. A characteristic feature of their apterae is the presence of fan-shaped 'spatulate' hairs as well as normal hairs. The anus and anal plate are displaced dorsally, and the anal plate is enlarged to form a trophobiotic organ as in Baizongia. Apterae developing on grasses have 4- or 5-segmented antennae, whereas in alatae the antennae are always 6-segmented. There are no faceted wax glands and, like for example Forda, Baizongia, Paracletus, Prociphilus and some Trama, these aphids lack siphunculi. Geoica alatae have variably developed dorsal abdominal cross-bands, and a rather different trophobiotic organ from that in apterae. The anal plate and cauda are extended laterally to unite and form a sclerotised perianal ring, enclosing a membranous area with the anal aperture at its centre.

Most species of Geoica form globular galls near the bases of leaflets of Pistacia and migrate to and from grass roots. The complete cycle takes two years. Gall-forming populations are present in southern Europe and south Asia where they host alternate to grass roots. Permanently parthenogenetic, grass-feeding populations of two species have become widely distributed in northern Europe, Asia and North America.

Species overview

Micrograph of clarified mounted aptera and alate, courtesy Favret, C. & G.L. Miller, AphID.

Genus Smynthurodes [Fordini]

Smynthurodes are rather small aphids, the apterae of which have two distinctive characteristics: (a) The second segment of the antenna is distinctly longer than the first, being similar in length to the third segment. (b) The primary rhinaria on the last two segments have thick, hairless, sclerotized rims. The alatae have the forewing veins dark-bordered, and the third antennal segment has numerous hairs, most of which are much longer than basal diameter of that segment.

There is only one species in the genus, Smynthurodes betae. It produces small midrib galls (for fundatrix) or larger leaf-edge galls (for her offspring) on Pistacia in the Mediterranean region, and as far east as Pakistan. The parthenogenetic generations feed on the roots of many dicotyledonous plants.

Species overview

Genus Mimeuria [Pemphigini]

The Mimeuria genus, in the Pemphigini, contains one species: Mimeuria ulmiphila. It is characterised by the antennal terminal process on both winged and wingless adults being vestigial, less than 0.1 times the length of the base of the last antennal segment. Also the apterae on the secondary host have one-segmented tarsi.

Mimeuria ulmiphila makes a leaf-nest gall on maple.

Species overview

Image copyright Dr László Érsek, all rights reserved.

Genus Pachypappa [Pemphigini]

Pachypappa are medium-sized aphids with large fundatrices. The fundatrices have no wax glands. The alate spring migrants have forewings with a once-branched medial vein.

About 13 species which host alternate between Populus (poplar) species and the roots of Picea (spruce).

Species overview

Image copyright Volker Fäßler, all rights reserved.

Genus Patchiella [Pemphigini]

The Patchiella genus has only one species of aphid, which host alternates between lime trees (Tilia) and the roots of plants in the Araceae family.

Species overview

Genus Pemphigus [Pemphigini]

Small to medium-sized aphids which form galls on poplar. The fundatrix in the gall is covered with wax (removed from the one in the picture to show features). The winged viviparae that emerge from these galls have a black head and pterothorax and a rather elongate greenish wax-dusted abdomen.

There are about 70 species most of which host alternate and have a sexual stage in the life cycle. The primary host is poplar (Populus: Salicaceae) where it induces a gall the leaves and twigs. The secondary host is a herbaceous plant where they form colonies on the roots or in a woolly wax mass above soil level. They are not attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Prociphilus [Pemphigini]

Prociphilus species range from rather small to very large aphids. They are characterised by lacking siphunculi and having well developed wax glands even in fundatrices.

The Prociphilus genus contains about 50 species which are fairly evenly distributed through the northern hemisphere. Prociphilus have lost their evolutionary constraint to Populus and transferred their sexual generation in relatively recent times to live in pseudogalls on various more advanced "primary" hosts, e.g. in Rosaceae, Caprifoliaceae and Oleaceae. However, as in the related genus Pachypappa, the parthenogenetic generations have retained an association with the roots of conifers.

Species overview

Image copyright Alan Watson Featherstone, all rights reserved.

Genus Thecabius [Pemphigini]

Small to medium-sized aphids (alate body length usually 2 - 3 mm) which have short antennae and siphuncular pores. Dorsal wax gland plates are present on all segments producing a dense covering of wax spicules.

About 17 species most of which host alternate and have a sexual stage in the life cycle. The primary host is poplar (Populus: Salicaceae) where it induces a gall on the leaves, petioles or branches. The secondary host is the roots or stems of plants such as buttercups (Ranunculus: Ranunculaceae) and Lysimachia (Myrsinaceae). They are not attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Hamamelistes [Hormaphidini]

Small wax-covered aphids living in a gall or pseudogall on the under or upper side of the leaf. The first picture (right) shows the aphid as it appears in life. The second picture (far right) is of a specimen in alcohol showing the very short 3- or 4-segmented antennae of apterae and the absence of siphunculi. Alates are distinguished by two oblique veins in the hind wing, and siphuncular pores.

A genus of five species in North America and east Asia. Most species host alternate between witch hazel (Hamamelis) and birch (Betula spp.), whilst others remain all year on birch. This variation may occur geographically within a species. The life cycle of host alternating species takes two years with the sexual stage on witch hazel.

Species overview

Genus Cinara [Eulachnini]

Aphids are usually large (apterae up to 5-6 mm in length), and may be winged or wingless. They are frequently wax-powdered and densely haired. The antennae are shorter than half the body length. The rostrum is relatively long reaching to behind the hind coxae. The apical part of the rostrum is slender, pointed and very long, 2-5 times as long as its basal width and is made up of two segments termed RIV and RV. The abdominal dorsum has 6 or more longitudinal rows of small, dark brown intersegmental muscle sclerites. The siphunculi are pore-like and located on broad, often pigmented, hairy cones. The cauda is always broader than long, either rounded or triangular. Males may be wingless or winged depending on species, and oviparae often differ from viviparae in the presence of a perianal ring of wax.

This is a very large genus sometimes assigned to its own subfamily, with species on conifers of the families Pinaceae and Cupressaceae. Many of the species (150) are native to North America, but there are also 55 species found in Europe and Asia. Cinara aphids do not host alternate, but remain on their chosen host species throughout the year. They may feed on the roots, branches, or foliage, and are often attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Essigella [Eulachnini]

These are long-bodied aphids, similar to Eulachnus, but smaller and with 5-segmented antennae. The apterae are spindle-shaped, with a tapered abdomen, but the "spindle" is truncated at the head end, which is relatively broad. The claws have modified apices, being bifurcate or double. The abdominal tergites are lightly to heavily sclerotized but not necessarily pigmented.

About 14 North American species, all living on pine (Pinus) needles except for one species on Douglas fir ( Pseudotsuga). They are often overlooked, as they feed near the bases of the need and move quickly when disturbed. Some have now been recorded as invasive species in Europe.

Species overview

Genus Eulachnus [Eulachnini]

Small, narrow and elongate greenish to olive brown aphids with long limbs. The siphunculi are slightly elevated, rim-like structures, barely visible in this image of an adult apterous Eulachnus. Antennae are 6-jointed.

This genus comprises about 17 species all of which live on the needles of pine (Pinaceae spp.). They are cryptic when feeding, but very active when disturbed. The best-known species show preferences for certain Pinus spp., but none is strictly confined to one species. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Schizolachnus [Eulachnini]

Rather small oval-bodied, hairy aphids which may be winged or wingless. The body is grey-green and usually covered with a dense coat of flocculent wax The siphuncular cones are small and pale.

This genus includes seven species (four nearctic and three palaearctic) all of which feed on the needles of pine (Pinus). They are found as small densely packed colonies along a needle. Despite the rather different appearance of the aphids, it appears that Schizolachnus is closely related to Eulachnus. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Lachnus [Lachnini]

Medium to large brown or black long-legged aphids which may be winged or wingless. They usually have prominent siphuncular cones. The cauda and anal plate are rounded. Winged forms have more than half the area of the forewings pigmented and the wings are relatively small, compared with the large body.

This genus includes about 22 species which mainly feed on the twigs and branches of broadleaved trees especially oaks, chestnuts and beeches (Fagaceae). They have a sexual stage in the life cycle but do not host alternate and are nearly always attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Maculolachnus [Lachnini]

Medium-sized aphids, the adult viviparae of which may be winged or wingless. They have no distinct pattern of pigmentation on the forewings but have a black spot at the base of the pterostigma. Dorsal hairs are often placed on dark scleroites. The siphuncular cones are low, hairy and conical.

Three species feeding on members of the rose family (Rosaceae). They have a sexual stage in the life cycle overwintering as eggs, but there is no host alternation. They are attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Stomaphis [Stomaphidini]

Stomaphis are large or very large oval aphids which are characterized in the females by a very long rostrum. Their antennae are 6-segmented and densely hairy. Their siphunculi are pores on low, haired, cones. The second segment of the hind tarsus is rather long compared with other lachnids. Males are small, apterous and have no mouthparts.

Stomaphis feed on the stems and roots of a variety of tree species, with most species on oak (Quercus), birch (Betula), maple (Acer), willow (Salix) and poplar (Populus).

Species overview

Image copyright Julian Hodgson, all rights reserved.

Genus Tuberolachnus [Tuberolachnini]

Large aphids which may be winged or wingless. They have a single large tubercle on the back of the fourth abdominal tergite (just in front of the siphunculi). Siphunculi on large dark cones. Antennae about half the body length.

A small genus with only three species of aphids, two of which are only found in the Far East (subgenus Tuberolachniella). The remaining species, Tuberolachnus salignus is cosmopolitan, and feeds on willows (Salicaceae). It does not host alternate and does not appear to have a sexual stage in the life cycle. It may be ant attended.

Species overview

Genus Protrama [Tramini]

Protrama are medium to large aphids. The apterae are normally alatiform, with dark dorsal cross bands and dark siphuncular cones. The eyes are large and the antennae are about half the body length. The hind tarsus is 0.5-0.9 times as long as the hind tibia. Siphuncular cones are present and are low and hairy. The cauda is rounded.

Protrama feed on underground parts of members of the daisy family, Asteraceae, (especially thistles and wormwoods), or of members of the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Amongst the Lachnini, members of the genera Protrama and Trama are the only ones that do not have trees as their only host.

Species overview

Trama are medium to large aphids. Apterae are whitish and densely hairy, with small compound eyes and no dark dorsal pigmentation. Their antennae are about 0.5 times the body length, with the antennal terminal process less than 0.25 times the base of antennal segment 6. The hind tarsus is greatly elongated. Most of the species (those in the subgenus Neotrama) have siphuncular pores on low cones, but the three species in the nominate subgenus have neither siphunculi nor siphuncular pores. The cauda is rounded.

There are 14 Trama species worldwide, mostly living on the roots of Asteraceae where they are attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Phyllaphis [Phyllaphini]

Medium sized (usually 2.0-3.2 mm in length) elongate oval, pale yellowish green aphids, covered with wax wool. Wax is produced from well-developed dorsal wax glands. Antennae are shorter than the body and have a very short antennal PT . The siphunculi are pore-like. Winged forms have the abdomen wax-covered, with variably-developed dark dorsal cross-bars.

A genus of 2 or 3 species on the leaves of beech (Fagus: Fagaceae). They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate and are not attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Mindarus [Mindarini]

Wingless forms have a fused head and pronotum and well well-developed wax glands which produce a covering of wax wool. The antennae are short. The siphunculi are pore-like and the cauda is bluntly triangular. Winged forms have forewings with an elongate pterostigma, tapering to a point at the wing apex. Oviparae and males are wingless and reduced in size.

There are 8 or more species worldwide feeding on the growing tips and young cones of spruces or firs. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but there is no host alternation and aphids are not attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Pterocomma [Macrosiphini previously Pterocommatinae : Pterocommini]

Brownish, grey or green with white, yellow or red siphunculi. The body is wax powdered, especially along segment borders, and is densely hairy. The antennae and legs are similarly hairy. The antennae are about half as long as body. The siphunculi are longer than wide, cylindrical or swollen with a more or less distinct flange.

About 30 species of robust, hairy aphids living on willows (Salicaceae) in the northern hemisphere. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate. Their colonies on the bark of branches and twigs are almost always attended by ants

Species overview

Genus Glyphina [Thelaxini]

Rather small aphids (body length about 2 mm). The dorsum is pigmented usually greenish or blackish with many conspicuous hairs. The antennae are very short. The siphunculi are present as pores on small cones.

There are 5 species which feed on Alder (Alnus) or birch (Betula). The 3 palaearctic species feed on aerial shoots, whereas the two North American species apparently feed underground. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate. They are usually attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Thelaxes [Thelaxini]

The wingless viviparae are small (1 - 2.3 mm) oval and brown or greenish, sometimes with a paler stripe along the back. The rostrum is distinctive in having a long and almost needle-like last rostral segment. The cauda is knobbed and the siphunculi are very short and virtually pore-like.

There are 4 species which feed on the young shoots, leaves and young acorns of various oak species (Quercus: Fagaceae). Three are in Europe and the Mediterranean region, and one in North America. They have a sexual stage in the life cycle, but do not host alternate. They are usually attended by ants.

Species overview

Genus Adelges [Adelgini]

Distinguished by having five pairs of abdominal spiracles, whereas members of the other genus of Adelgidae, Pineus, have only four distinct pairs. They are often identified from the shape of the galls on the primary host (wspruce) which are cone-like, often resembling miniature pineapples. Forms on the secondary host often produce abundant wax.

About 30 species worldwide. The primary host of species with a sexual stage in their life cycle is spruce (Picea), and the secondary hosts are fir (Abies), larch (Larix) and other conifers (but not pine). The complete life cycle of these species takes two years. Several species have lost sexual reproduction and host alternation, and instead live all year on spruce or the (original) secondary host.

Species overview

Genus Pineus [Adelgini]

Distinguished by having only four distinct pairs of abdominal spiracles. Wingless adults on secondary hosts are pear-shaped or globular and have a fused and pigmented head and prothoracic shield. They generally secrete white wax-wool.

About 23 species through Europe, Asia and North America. The primary host of species with a sexual stage in their life cycle species is spruce (Picea), and the secondary host is pine ( Pinus). The galls on spruce are usually on the shoot tips and are less compact than those of Adelges. Several species have lost sexual reproduction and host alternation, and instead live all year on spruce or pine.

Species overview

Genus Phylloxera [Phylloxerini]

Phylloxera are small pear-shaped aphids (using 'aphids' in the loose sense, phylloxerids are not 'true' aphids). Both the sexual and parthenogenetic females are oviparous. The wings are held flat over the abdomen at rest. The ovipositor is vestigial or absent.

Phylloxera feed on plants in the walnut (Juglandaceae) and oak/chestnut (Fagaceae) families.

Species overview