Uroleucon eupatoricolens

(Patch, 1919)

Uroleucon eupatoricolens is an in the Aphididae. Like other members of the Uroleucon, it is a sap-sucking insect that feeds on plants in the Asteraceae family. The species reproduces parthenogenetically during spring and summer, producing all-female colonies. When disturbed, colonies exhibit synchronized twitching and kicking defensive . These aphids serve as important prey for diverse including lady beetles, lacewings, flower flies, and spiders.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Uroleucon eupatoricolens: /ˌjuːroʊˈljuːkɒn juːˌpeɪtərɪkəˈlɛnz/

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

Habitat

Found on plants in the Asteraceae , including such as Eupatorium (boneset), black-eyed Susan, coneflower, and sunflower.

Seasonality

Active during spring and summer when can explode on plants.

Diet

Feeds on phloem sap from vascular plants in the Asteraceae .

Host Associations

  • Eupatorium - plant for this , as indicated by specific epithet 'eupatoricolens'

Life Cycle

Reproduces parthenogenetically during spring and summer, with females producing offspring without males.

Behavior

Exhibits synchronized collective twitching and kicking response (CTKR) when colonies are disturbed by or vibrations. This coordinated defense may reduce successful attacks by parasitic and small predators.

Ecological Role

Serves as a prey base for diverse . colonies function as 'feeding factories' that support predators that subsequently disperse to control pests on other plants in the landscape.

Similar Taxa

  • Uroleucon ambrosiaeClosely related congeneric with similar , associations (Asteraceae), and defensive . Both species exhibit collective twitching responses and serve as prey for similar .

Tags

Sources and further reading