« Back

Hyadaphis foeniculi

Fennel aphid

Description

Hyadaphis foeniculi, known as the fennel aphid or fly honeysuckle aphid, is an oligophagous species that alternates between primary hosts in the Caprifoliaceae family, mainly Lonicera spp., and secondary hosts in the Apiaceae family, such as Foeniculum vulgare, Pastinaca sativa, and Conium maculatum. The species is widely distributed across Europe, extending eastward to Turkey and Iraq, and has also been recorded in North America and Brazil.

Aphids feed by sucking plant sap, causing leaf deformation, gall formation, and reduced photosynthetic efficiency. On honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), they induce leaf curling and pale discoloration. Severe infestations lead to stunted growth, premature leaf drop, and weakened plant development. The presence of honeydew promotes sooty mold growth, further diminishing the plant's aesthetic and physiological condition.

Symptom

On honeysuckle, leaves curl upward and may develop pale, swollen galls.

Tree Species: Lonicera

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes