Eriosoma
Eriosoma
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Sternorrhyncha
- Superfamily: Aphidoidea
- Family: Aphididae
- Subfamily: Eriosomatinae
- Tribe: Eriosomatini
- Genus: Eriosoma
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eriosoma: //ˌɛr.i.oʊˈsoʊ.mə//
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Summary
Eriosoma lanigerum, commonly known as the woolly apple aphid, is a sap-sucking aphid primarily affecting apple trees, causing significant damage through gall formation and honeydew secretion. It has a complex life cycle with predominantly asexual reproduction and is disseminated through multiple generations per year.
Physical Characteristics
Small to medium-sized aphids, up to 2mm long, elliptical shape, reddish brown to purple color typically obscured by white cotton-like secretion from specialized glands. Newly moulted individuals lack the wax coating. Sooty-brown antennae with six segments; tibias vary from dark brown to yellowish. Nymphs are salmon pink with dark eyes and circular cornicles; can appear dark green to almost black when hibernating.
Identification Tips
The presence of a woolly substance distinguishes Eriosoma lanigerum from other aphids on apple trees. When crushed, they leave a blood red stain.
Habitat
Eriosoma lanigerum typically inhabits apple trees and other hardwoods, with a preference for sited infestations at the axils of leaves on terminal shoots.
Distribution
Originally native to North America, now found worldwide in regions where apples are grown; first recorded in Great Britain in 1787.
Diet
Sucks sap from host plants, predominantly apple and various other hardwood species.
Life Cycle
Undergoes a life cycle with up to 8-12 generations per year, includes both sexual and asexual reproduction. In cooler climates, survives winter as nymphs or eggs.
Reproduction
Primarily asexual reproduction through parthenogenesis, with occasional sexual reproduction resulting in egg laying on Ulmus americana.
Predators
Predators include the bug Anthocoris nemoralis, ladybirds, hoverfly larvae, lacewings, and earwigs (Forficula auricularia).
Ecosystem Role
Key herbivore of apple and related species in ecosystems, influencing plant health and nutrient cycling.
Economic Impact
Causes galls on apple trees, damaging roots and reducing tree growth; can lead to lower fruit quality due to honeydew excretion.
Collecting Methods
- Direct collection from host plants
- Tree banding
- Visual inspection for galls and aphids
Preservation Methods
- Dried specimens in insect display cases
- Alcohol preservation for genetic studies
Evolution
Part of the Eriosomatinae subfamily, showing adaptations for living in various host plants and environments.
Misconceptions
Some misidentifications exist, with specimens collected from elms that may actually belong to different species than E. lanigerum.
Tags
- Eriosoma
- woolly apple aphid
- Aphidoidea
- sap-sucker
- plant pest