Patchiella kolokasia

Distinguished from other aphids on Tilia by its formation of characteristic 'leaf nests' (enclosed galls formed by leaf curling and distortion). The genus Patchiella is recognized within Pemphiginae by this nesting behavior and host association pattern. Specific identification requires examination of fundatrix morphology; detailed descriptions are available for Korean specimens.

Morphological details available primarily for fundatrices (stem mothers). As a member of Pemphiginae, likely exhibits reduced cornicles and other traits typical of gall-forming aphids, though specific diagnostic features for this species require examination of type material.

Associated with Tilia species (primary hosts), specifically forming enclosed leaf nest galls on leaves. Secondary host stage occurs on Araceae species, though specific microhabitat details for this stage are not documented.

China (type locality), Japan, and South Korea (Gyeonggi-do, first recorded 2025). Known from the Korean Peninsula only from a single collection event on Tilia mandshurica.

Phloem-feeding on Tilia mandshurica (primary host) and Araceae species (secondary hosts). Specific feeding sites within host tissues not described.

• Tilia mandshurica - primary hostMalvaceae; forms leaf nest galls
• Araceae - secondary hostFamily-level identification; specific genera or species not confirmed for P. kolokasia

Heteroecious with host alternation: overwinters as eggs on Tilia species, fundatrices induce leaf nest galls in spring, produces alates that migrate to Araceae secondary hosts for summer generations, then returns to Tilia for sexual reproduction and egg-laying. Specific timing and number of generations not documented.

Forms characteristic enclosed 'leaf nests' by inducing leaf curling and distortion on Tilia. This nesting behavior creates a protected microenvironment for colony development. Migration between primary and secondary hosts occurs via alate (winged) morphs.

No documented economic or agricultural significance. Of interest to aphid systematists and those studying gall-forming insects. Recent Korean record contributes to understanding of East Asian aphid biogeography.

• Other Pemphiginae on TiliaSeveral Pemphiginae species form galls on Tilia; Patchiella distinguished by specific 'leaf nest' morphology and host alternation to Araceae rather than roots of other plants
• Patchiella reaumuriCongeneric species also on Tilia; differentiation requires morphological examination of fundatrices and gall structure

• aphid
• gall-former
• heteroecious
• leaf nest
• Tilia
• East Asia

• BugGuide
• Catalogue of Life
• First record of the genus Patchiella (Hemiptera, Aphididae) on Tilia mandshurica in South Korea