Aphis ulicis
This record describes Aphis ulicis (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Adult apterae of Aphis ulicis are dark blackish green, with the abdominal dorsum shiny black, but usually covered with greyish wax powdering. The legs and antennae are largely pale. See 'Further Information' link below for more detail. Please provide close up photographs and state whether recorded on Gorse. Most likely to be encountered from late spring to autumn. Thought to be common in Britain, but possibly under recorded. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Aphis_ulicis_Gorse_aphid.htm No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found on Gorse (monophagous)
Seasonal Activity
Most likely to be encountered from late spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The species is usually ant attended.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Thought to be common in Britain, but possibly under recorded.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Aphis ulicis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hemiptera (true bugs) includes over 80,000 described species across cicadas, aphids, leafhoppers, shield bugs, and bed bugs. Aphids alone cost global agriculture an estimated $2.5 billion annually in crop losses.
Ecological role of the group
Many Hemiptera are essential food sources for birds and predatory insects. Cicadas provide massive nutrient pulses during emergence events - a single Brood X emergence can involve trillions of individuals across 15 states.
Economic and practical significance of the group
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) caused $37 million in apple crop losses in a single year in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region. Bed bug infestations in the U.S. increased by 500% between 2001-2010, costing the hotel industry hundreds of millions annually.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, EPA, University research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Aphis ulicis (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Aphis ulicis
What is Aphis ulicis?
Aphis ulicis is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Aphis ulicis found?
Habitat: Found on Gorse (monophagous)
When is Aphis ulicis active?
Aphis ulicis: seasonal activity - Most likely to be encountered from late spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Aphis ulicis?
The species is usually ant attended.