Phylloxera

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Suborder: Sternorrhyncha
Superfamily: Phylloxeroidea
Family: Phylloxeridae
Genus: Phylloxera

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Phylloxera: /fɪˈlɒksəɹə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Phylloxera notabilis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Phylloxera salicola by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Phylloxera georgiana by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Phylloxera pilosula by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Phylloxera rimosalis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Phylloxera is a significant pest of grapevines, causing deformities and potentially devastating economic losses in vineyards worldwide. It has a complex life cycle with various forms, and control methods primarily involve the use of resistant rootstocks.

Physical Characteristics

Microscopic, pale yellow sap-sucking insects related to aphids. They cause deformations like 'nodosities' and 'tuberosities' on grapevine roots.

Identification Tips

Look for distinctive galls on the leaves of grapevines, especially on American vine species, typically seen on the undersides of the leaves.

Habitat

Primarily found in vineyard environments, particularly where grapevines (e.g., Vitis vinifera) are grown, as well as in areas where American vine species are native.

Distribution

Originally native to eastern North America; now found worldwide wherever grapevines are cultivated, notably in Europe and Australia.

Diet

Sucks sap from the roots and leaves of grapevines, causing stress and damage to the plant.

Life Cycle

Complex, involving up to 18 stages with forms including sexual form, leaf form, root form, and winged form. Nymphs are involved in both leaf gall formation and root infection.

Reproduction

Reproduces parthenogenetically; females lay eggs on the underside of grape leaves and in galls, with several generations occurring per season.

Predators

Natural predators include various species of insects such as lady beetles (Coccinellidae) and lacewings (Chrysopidae).

Ecosystem Role

Acts as a pest to grapevines, influencing vineyard practices and impacting grape production significantly.

Economic Impact

Phylloxera has caused devastating losses in vineyards, particularly in Europe during the late 19th century, leading to the widespread adoption of grafting on resistant rootstocks.

Cultural Significance

The phylloxera plague significantly affected the wine industry in Europe, leading to changes in vineyard practices and grapevine cultivation methods.

Evolution

Evolved alongside grapevine species in North America, with relationships to both native and cultivated grapes influencing its adaptability to different environments.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often thought to only affect European wine grapes, but can also affect other Vitis species depending on environmental conditions and resistance.