Phorodon cannabis

Passerini, 1860

Cannabis Aphid, Hemp Aphid

Phorodon cannabis is a monophagous pest specialized on hemp (Cannabis sativa), causing significant damage in field and greenhouse cultivations. Native to Eurasia and North Africa, it was first detected in North America in 2016 and has since spread to multiple U.S. states and Canada. The feeds on phloem sap, causing plant wilting, yellowing, and yield reduction, and transmits Cannabis Streak Virus. Optimal development occurs at 25°C, with mild abiotic stress paradoxically stimulating via hormesis.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Phorodon cannabis: /ˈfɔːrədɒn ˈkænəbɪs/

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

Identification

Distinguished from other aphids by strict monophagy on Cannabis sativa; most commonly found on undersides of leaves and flower stalks. (winged) forms may be confused with aphids but association with hemp is diagnostic. Morphological details require examination; identification often confirmed by host plant association and location on plant (growing tips, leaf undersides, flower stalks).

Habitat

Undersides of hemp leaves and flower stalks; field and greenhouse cultivations of Cannabis sativa. In indoor facilities, thrive in soil, rock wool, coconut coir, and aeroponic systems. Under herbicide-induced stress, aphids relocate from actively growing tips to lower plant parts.

Distribution

Native to central, eastern and southern Europe, Turkey, great parts of Asia, and North Africa. Introduced to North America in 2016 (first detected in Colorado), now present in Colorado, Oregon, California, and parts of Canada.

Diet

Phloem sap of hemp (Cannabis sativa).

Host Associations

Cannabis sativa - obligate Strict monophagy; only known plant

Life Cycle

Holocyclic and ; completes entire on single . Developmental stages include pre-, reproduction, and post-reproduction. At 25°C: lifespan approximately 25 days, reproductive period approximately 15 days. Temperature range 20-30°C; survival and decline significantly at 28°C and above.

Behavior

Normal feeding position on actively growing tips of plant. Under mild abiotic stress from herbicide (quizalofop-P-tefuryl) exposure, exhibits behavioral change by moving to lower plant parts. Demonstrates enzymatic detoxification and antioxidant responses including increased superoxide dismutase, catalase, β-glucosidase, S-glutathione transferase, peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase activity.

Ecological Role

Pest of hemp causing direct damage through phloem feeding (wilting, yellowing, yield reduction) and indirect damage as of Cannabis Streak Virus. Subject to by Aphelinus varipes, which has shown parasitism rates up to 21% in controlled settings. Potential bioindicator of climate warming due to temperature-sensitive .

Human Relevance

Economic pest of hemp production systems, particularly for CBD, grain, and fiber cultivars. Concern exists regarding potential for THC level increases in hemp due to feeding damage, though this requires further study. Management challenges include lack of labeled for hemp and need for development. and fungi are being investigated as control options.

Similar Taxa

Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominale (rice root aphid)Also pest of Cannabis sativa, but differs in feeding location (roots vs. leaves/flower stalks), broader range (), and cryptic soil-dwelling habit. P. cannabis is strictly monophagous and feeds above ground.
Aphis gossypii (cotton aphid) found on many crops including Cannabis, but lacks strict monophagy; morphological separation requires expert identification and association is primary distinguishing feature.

More Details

Hormesis Effect

Mild abiotic stress from herbicide exposure paradoxically increases , a phenomenon known as hormesis. This complicates management strategies as sublethal herbicide applications may inadvertently boost .

Temperature Sensitivity

are highly temperature-sensitive, with optimal at 25°C. This sensitivity suggests the may serve as a bioindicator for climate warming effects on insect pests.

Biocontrol Potential

Aphelinus varipes has demonstrated of P. cannabis in laboratory settings, with potential for higher parasitism rates in unconstrained operational settings. fungi have also shown effectiveness in control.