Rhopalosiphoninus
Baker, 1920
Species Guides
1- Rhopalosiphoninus latysiphon(bulb-and-potato aphid)
Rhopalosiphoninus is a of aphids in the Aphididae. in this genus are distributed across Europe, Australia, and North America. The genus includes both above-ground and subterranean-feeding species. At least one species, Rhopalosiphoninus latysiphon, is restricted to potato roots due to climatic intolerance of aerial conditions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rhopalosiphoninus: //ˌɹoʊpəloʊsaɪfəˈnaɪnəs//
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Habitat
vary by . Rhopalosiphoninus latysiphon inhabits subterranean parts of field potato plants, avoiding foliage due to sensitivity to high air temperatures and radiant heat. Other species occupy aerial plant parts.
Distribution
Europe, Australia, and North America. Specific distribution records exist for Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
Diet
Phloem-feeding on plant vascular tissue. Rhopalosiphoninus latysiphon feeds on potato roots.
Host Associations
- potato - Specifically roots, not foliage
- Solanum tuberosum - Root-feeding by R. latysiphon
Behavior
Rhopalosiphoninus latysiphon exhibits subterranean selection driven by climatic factors. The avoids aerial plant parts due to intolerance of high temperatures and dry conditions, preferring damp environments.
More Details
Climatic constraints on distribution
Research on Rhopalosiphoninus latysiphon demonstrates that this ' restriction to potato roots is not due to inability to feed on foliage, but rather to climatic limitations. The can be reared on foliage under cool conditions, but normally avoids above-ground plant parts due to high air temperatures, radiant heat, and preference for damp environments.