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Aphis spiraecola

Spirea aphid

Description

Aphis spiraecola, commonly known as the green citrus aphid or spirea aphid, is a polyphagous species from the family Aphididae. This pest feeds on over 65 genera of plants, including economically significant crops like citrus, apples, pears, and various ornamentals such as spirea, hibiscus, and chrysanthemum. It thrives in both temperate and tropical regions worldwide, including Europe, where it is invasive. The aphid is holocyclic in some regions, reproducing sexually on primary hosts like Spiraea and Citrus in autumn, and parthenogenetically on secondary hosts during the growing season. Feeding causes leaf curling, deformation, and discoloration, reducing the plant's aesthetic value and hindering photosynthesis. The excretion of honeydew fosters sooty mold development, further degrading the appearance of affected plants. Aphis spiraecola is also an important vector of plant viruses, increasing its economic impact on fruit trees and ornamental plants.

Symptom

Leaves of infested plants are curled, deformed, and discolored, often with sticky honeydew deposits. Colonies of green aphids are visible on the undersides of leaves and young shoots.

Tree Species: Spindle, Peach, Cherry, Citrus, Photinia, Hawthorn, Pear, Apple Tree, Apricots, Currant, Rose, Plum, Spirea spp.

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes