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Aploneura lentisci

Mealy grass root aphid

Description

Aploneura lentisci, commonly known as the mealy grass root aphid, is a species that primarily infests Pistacia lentiscus, forming characteristic galls on its leaves. These galls, which are kidney-shaped and about 1-2 cm in size, are created through a deep invagination along the midrib of the leaf. The galls develop in March and April, maturing by May. Inside the galls, a single fundatrix gives rise to several parthenogenetic generations. After gall maturing, winged aphids (alates) leave the galls between August and November to establish colonies on the roots of grasses, primarily in the Poaceae family. In areas where Pistacia trees are absent, the aphid completes its life cycle on the roots of grasses. This aphid has a wide distribution, being found across southern Europe, the Middle East, central Asia, parts of Africa, and the Americas. In regions like Australia and New Zealand, Aploneura lentisci also persists on grass roots.

Symptom

Aploneura lentisci causes kidney-shaped galls on Pistacia lentiscus, and on grasses, it weakens plants by feeding on their roots and leaves, which can significantly reduce plant growth and vitality.

Tree Species: Pistacia

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes