Myzus lythri

(Schrank, 1801)

loosestrife aphid

Myzus lythri is a specialized that feeds exclusively on purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). It has been used as an to track the distribution and spread of this weed in North America. Suction trap surveys in Idaho demonstrated that aphid collection patterns successfully predicted undocumented purple loosestrife , representing a novel application of insect survey data for weed documentation.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Myzus lythri: //ˈmaɪ.zəs ˈlɪθ.ri//

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Identification

Myzus lythri can be distinguished from other Myzus by its strict association with purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) as a plant. The species lacks the broad host range of its , which feeds on over 800 plant species across multiple .

Habitat

Found in supporting purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), including wetlands, riverbanks, lakeshores, and disturbed moist areas where this plant establishes.

Distribution

Documented in Idaho, USA, where suction trap surveys have tracked its distribution. Native range in Europe; introduced to North America in association with its plant purple loosestrife.

Diet

Phloem feeder specializing on purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria).

Host Associations

Lythrum salicaria - obligate purple loosestrife; sole known plant

Behavior

Suction trap collections of this have been used to predict undocumented plant , marking the first documented case of insect survey records used to track the range of an introduced weed.

Ecological Role

Serves as an for purple loosestrife distribution and range expansion. Potential agent candidate for management of this weed.

Human Relevance

Used as a survey tool to detect and predict spread of purple loosestrife. Potential interest for programs targeting purple loosestrife .

Similar Taxa

Myzus persicaeBoth are Myzus aphids, but M. persicae has an extremely broad range (800+ ) while M. lythri is strictly monophagous on purple loosestrife

More Details

Invasive Species Monitoring Application

Idaho suction trap studies demonstrated that mean collection patterns of M. lythri reflected weed distribution and successfully predicted undocumented purple loosestrife . This represents the first documented use of insect survey records to document the range of an introduced weed.