Daktulosphaira

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Daktulosphaira: //ˌdæktjʊloʊˈsfaɪrə//

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Summary

Grape phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifoliae) is a significant insect pest of grapevines that leads to severe economic impacts on vineyards and wine production worldwide, originally native to North America.

Physical Characteristics

Almost microscopic, pale yellow sap-sucking insects.

Identification Tips

Look for galls on leaves and root deformations.

Habitat

Grapevine roots and leaves, particularly in vineyards.

Distribution

Originally native to eastern North America, found worldwide in grapevine regions.

Diet

Sap-sucking, primarily feeding on roots and leaves of grapevines.

Life Cycle

Complex life-cycle consisting of up to 18 stages divided into sexual form, leaf form, root form, and winged form.

Reproduction

Parthenogenetic reproduction occurs after mating; can reproduce several generations a year in suitable conditions.

Ecosystem Role

Pest of grapevines, playing a role in vineyard ecosystem dynamics.

Economic Impact

Harmful pest causing significant decline in grapevine health and vineyard productivity, affecting wine production.

Cultural Significance

Significant historical impact on European viticulture, leading to changes in grape farming practices.

Collecting Methods

• Trapping with sticky traps

Preservation Methods

• Preservation in alcohol for future study
• Frozen storage for genetic research

Evolution

Well-adapted to various climates and hosts due to its complex reproductive strategy.

Similar Taxa

• Aphids
• Other phylloxerids

Misconceptions

Not a disease but a pest; control methods vary with grape type and region.

Tags

• insect
• grape pest
• phylloxeridae
• Daktulosphaira
• grapevine
• vineyards