Purple-spotted Lily Aphid

Macrosiphum lilii

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Macrosiphum lilii: //ˌmækroʊˈsaɪfəm ˈlɪli.aɪ//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Summary

Macrosiphum lilii, known as the Purple-spotted Lily Aphid, is a non-native aphid species that predominantly affects cultivated lilies, recognized by its purple spots and parthenogenetic summer populations. It is an important pest, influencing the health of lily plants and thus impacting their cultivation.

Physical Characteristics

Typically small in size with distinct purple spots on their bodies, which can be recognized among other aphids.

Identification Tips

Look for purple spots on their green body and the presence of cornicles on the abdomen; they predominantly feed on lily plants.

Habitat

Macrosiphum lilii prefers habitats where its host plant, the lily, is abundant, commonly found in gardens and cultivated fields.

Distribution

This species is considered non-native, likely originating from the Palearctic region, and is present in areas where cultivated lilies are grown.

Diet

Feeds primarily on the sap of lily plants, which can be detrimental to the health of these plants.

Life Cycle

Populations consist of parthenogenetic females during the summer, with males and females produced in the fall for reproduction.

Reproduction

Females reproduce asexually in summer, while sexual reproduction occurs in the fall, leading to egg-laying for winter.

Predators

Natural predators include ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitoid wasps that help keep aphid populations in check.

Ecosystem Role

An important pest species that can impact plant health, affecting the balance of the garden ecosystem.

Economic Impact

Considered a pest in cultivated environments, impacting commercial cultivation of lilies and potentially leading to economic losses.

Cultural Significance

While not widely recognized in culture, its role as a pest may influence gardening practices.

Collecting Methods

  • Hand collection
  • Sweep netting
  • Sticky traps

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Freeze preservation

Evolution

Part of the larger Aphidoidea superfamily, evolving unique traits for survival on specific host plants like lilies.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for similar looking aphids that do not have the distinctive coloration of Macrosiphum lilii.

Tags

  • aphid
  • pest
  • lily
  • non-native
  • Macrosiphum