Cinara hottesi

Gillette & Palmer, 1924

Blue-black Spruce Aphid

Cinara hottesi is a of conifer-feeding in the Aphididae, commonly known as the Blue-black Spruce Aphid. It belongs to the Cinara, which comprises large aphids specialized on conifers. The species is documented as a pest of spruce trees (Picea spp.) and has been recorded from North America.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cinara hottesi: /siːˈnɑːrə ˈhɒtɛsaɪ/

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Identification

Cinara aphids are among the largest aphids, with typically 3-6 mm in length. They possess a long, stout rostrum adapted for penetrating conifer phloem. Cinara hottesi can be distinguished from other Cinara by association with spruce and specific morphological features of the siphunculi and cauda, though detailed diagnostic characters require examination.

Habitat

Associated with spruce trees (Picea spp.), particularly in forested and ornamental settings. Occurs on branches and twigs where it feeds on phloem sap.

Distribution

Recorded from North America. Specific locality data is sparse in available sources.

Diet

Phloem sap of spruce trees (Picea spp.).

Host Associations

Picea - obligate plant; specific within not confirmed in available sources

Ecological Role

As a phloem-feeding insect, produces honeydew that supports growth and attracts predatory and scavenging insects including and ants. Serves as prey for various and .

Human Relevance

Documented as a pest of spruce in Christmas tree production and forestry contexts. Listed among pests of concern for Fraser fir Christmas tree production in the southeastern United States, though Cinara hottesi specifically is associated with spruce rather than fir.

Similar Taxa

Cinara strobiAlso a large conifer ; distinguished by preference for white pine (Pinus strobus) versus spruce for C. hottesi
Other Cinara speciesMany Cinara are morphologically similar and require careful examination of siphunculi, cauda, and body proportions for identification; plant association is a primary distinguishing feature

More Details

Taxonomic Notes

Cinara hottesi was described by Gillette & Palmer in 1924. The Cinara is taxonomically challenging with many differentiated by subtle morphological characters.

Observation Rarity

As of available sources, iNaturalist records only 2 observations of this , suggesting it may be underreported, difficult to identify, or genuinely uncommon in areas where it occurs.