Woolly Elm Aphid

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eriosoma americanum: //ˌɛriˈɒsəmə əˌmɛrɪˈkeɪnəm//

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Summary

Eriosoma americanum, the woolly elm aphid, is a sap-sucking insect that affects elm trees, leading to visible symptoms like curled leaves and cottony masses.

Physical Characteristics

Symptoms of infestations include curled leaves and cottony masses on leaves.

Identification Tips

Look for masses of visible dark areas and cottony masses on American elm leaves.

Habitat

Native to North America, primarily found in areas with Saskatoon and American elm trees.

Distribution

Common in regions where Saskatoon and American elm trees are established.

Diet

Feeds on the sap of Saskatoon (Amelanchier alnifolia) and American elm (Ulmus americana) trees.

Life Cycle

Active during late spring through fall for Saskatoon elm and early spring and late fall for American elm.

Reproduction

Reproduces throughout the active seasons corresponding with host plant availability.

Predators

Natural predators include various species of ladybugs and lacewings that feed on aphids.

Ecosystem Role

Helps in nutrient cycling within the ecosystem by feeding on plant sap and creating honeydew.

Economic Impact

Potential impact on the health of elm trees, which can affect urban forestry and landscaping.

Collecting Methods

• Visual inspection of host plants for aphid presence.
• Sampling leaves showing signs of infestation.

Preservation Methods

• Preserve specimens in 70% ethanol for future study.
• Photographic documentation of affected plant areas.

Similar Taxa

• Other aphid species within the Aphididae family.

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for other aphid species due to similar symptoms and visual attributes.

Tags

• Eriosoma americanum
• Woolly Elm Aphid
• Aphids
• Hemiptera
• Elm Pest