Melanaphis donacis
(Passerini, 1861)
Giant Reed Aphid
Melanaphis donacis, commonly known as the Giant Reed , is an aphid in the . The species was first described by Passerini in 1861 under the basionym Aphis donacis. It is part of the Melanaphis, which includes other economically significant aphid species such as the aphid (M. sacchari). Records indicate presence on several islands of the Azores archipelago.



Pronunciation
How to pronounce Melanaphis donacis: //mɛˈlænəfɪs ˈdɒnəsɪs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
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Distribution
Distribution records exist for several islands of the Azores archipelago: Corvo, Faial, Flores, Graciosa, and São Jorge.
Host Associations
- Arundo donax - Giant reed, suggested by and epithet
Similar Taxa
- Melanaphis sacchariCongeneric with similar ; M. sacchari is a major pest of sorghum and in the Americas
- Melanaphis sorghiCongeneric ; previously considered a synonym of M. sacchari but now recognized as distinct; significant pest of sorghum in North America
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The Melanaphis has undergone taxonomic revision, with M. sorghi previously treated as synonymous with M. sacchari. The relationship between M. donacis and these economically important warrants further study to clarify range and potential pest status.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
- Catalogue of Life
- Stem- and Leaf- Feeding Insects - AgriLife Extension Entomology
- Rhizaspidiotus donacis Archives - Entomology Today
- Melanaphis sorghi Archives - Entomology Today
- Melanaphis sacchari Archives - Entomology Today
- When Educating About Insects, Instructional Video Can Help
- How One Entomologist is Exploring Insect Pests in Midwestern Agroecosystems