Turnip aphid

Definition

A common name for Lipaphis erysimi, a small aphid in the family Aphididae that feeds exclusively on cruciferous plants (Brassicaceae). Populations are composed almost entirely of females that reproduce parthenogenetically, with wingless individuals producing approximately 100 offspring during a lifespan of several weeks. The species occurs in temperate and tropical regions worldwide and is a significant pest of mustard, turnip, cabbage, and related crops.

Etymology

From English 'turnip' (the root vegetable Brassica rapa subsp. rapa, a host plant) + 'aphid' (the common name for small sap-sucking insects in the superfamily Aphidoidea).

Example

Heavy infestations of turnip aphids on winter canola can cause leaf curling, stunted growth, and honeydew accumulation that promotes sooty mold; winged morphs typically appear in autumn to disperse to new host patches.

Synonyms

• mustard aphid

Related Terms

• Lipaphis erysimi
• Aphididae
• Parthenogenesis
• holocyclic
• crucifer
• Brassicaceae
• Vector
• stylet

Usage Notes

Used interchangeably with 'mustard aphid' in agricultural contexts; specialists prefer the scientific name Lipaphis erysimi to avoid confusion with other Brassicaceae-feeding aphids such as Brevicoryne brassicae (cabbage aphid). The common name refers to host association rather than taxonomic distinctiveness.