Capitophorus hippophaes

(Walker, 1852)

Polygonum Aphid

Capitophorus hippophaes is a of in the Aphididae, first described by Francis Walker in 1852 as Aphis hippophaes. It exhibits a , alternating between primary in the Hippophae and Elaeagnus (family Elaeagnaceae) and secondary hosts in the genera Persicaria and Polygonum (Polygonaceae). Native to Europe, it has established across multiple continents including North America, Oceania, and Asia. The species is commonly known as the polygonum aphid.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Capitophorus hippophaes: //kəˌpɪtəˈfɔːrəs ˌhɪpəˈfiːz//

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Distribution

Native to Europe. Established recorded in the United States and Canada, New Zealand, Korean Peninsula, Taiwan, Pakistan, South Africa, Georgia, Bangladesh, Ecuador, and Australia. GBIF records also indicate presence in the Azores (Flores, São Miguel), Czech Republic, Denmark, and Norway.

Diet

Feeds on primary plants in the Hippophae and Elaeagnus ( Elaeagnaceae), and secondary host plants in the genera Persicaria and Polygonum (Polygonaceae).

Host Associations

  • Hippophae - primary
  • Elaeagnus - primary
  • Persicaria - secondary
  • Polygonum - secondary

Life Cycle

Heteroecious, alternating between primary (Hippophae, Elaeagnus) and secondary hosts (Persicaria, Polygonum). Specific developmental stages and timing not documented in available sources.

More Details

Taxonomic Status

Catalogue of Life lists this as accepted. GBIF flags the name as DOUBTFUL with an EXACT match type, and places the species under Vesiculaphis rather than Capitophorus, indicating potential taxonomic uncertainty requiring verification.

Nomenclatural History

Originally described as Aphis hippophaes by Francis Walker in 1852, later transferred to Capitophorus.

Tags

Sources and further reading