Diuraphis noxia

Definition

A species of aphid in the family Aphididae, commonly known as the Russian wheat aphid, that is a major pest of cereal grain crops. Adults are pale green, up to 2 mm long, with very short rounded cornicles and a distinctive appendage above the cauda that creates a two-tailed appearance. The species is invasive in North America (introduced to the United States in 1986) and causes damage through direct feeding and toxic saliva that produces characteristic whitish striping on leaves; heavy infestations cause flag leaves to curl around developing heads, resulting in incomplete emergence and significant yield losses in wheat, barley, and related grasses.

Etymology

Example

Diuraphis noxia populations in the Great Plains of North America are monitored using suction traps and degree-day models to time insecticide applications and resistant wheat variety deployment.

Synonyms

• Russian wheat aphid

Related Terms

• Aphididae
• Hemiptera
• cornicle
• cauda
• Invasive species
• Host plant resistance
• Integrated Pest Management

Usage Notes

The common name "Russian wheat aphid" refers to the species' presumed origin in Central Asia or southern Russia; in scientific literature the binomial Diuraphis noxia is preferred. Taxonomic authorities are sometimes cited as (Mordvilko, 1913) or (Kurdjumov, 1913) reflecting historical synonymy. The species is distinguished from other cereal aphids (e.g., Sitobion avenae, Rhopalosiphum padi) by its short cornicles and caudal appendage.