Sarucallis kahawaluokalani

Definition

A species of aphid in the family Aphididae (order Hemiptera), originally described from Hawaii by Kirkaldy in 1907. This species feeds on Canna species and related plants, making it notable as one of the few aphids specialized on Cannaceae. The specific epithet incorporates elements of the Hawaiian language, reflecting its type locality.

Etymology

From the genus Sarucallis (established for aphids with distinctive morphological features) + kahawaluokalani, a Hawaiian compound term; the species was described from Hawaiian specimens

Example

Sarucallis kahawaluokalani infestations on ornamental Canna lilies in tropical and subtropical regions can cause leaf curling and honeydew accumulation, attracting sooty molds.

Synonyms

• Canna aphid
• Hawaiian canna aphid

Related Terms

• Aphididae
• Hemiptera
• Sternorrhyncha
• Kirkaldy
• Canna
• host specialization
• Parthenogenesis

Usage Notes

Sometimes confused with generalist aphids on Cannaceae; accurate identification requires examination of siphunculi and cauda morphology. The species reproduces parthenogenetically in most populations, with sexual morphs rarely observed outside its native range.