Aphis ulmariae
This record describes Aphis ulmariae (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Aphis ulmariae live in the curled terminal leaves of Meadowsweet and other Filipendula species. Adult apterae are generally described as mottled dark green in life but some are yellow mottled with green, similar to the colour variation shown by its closest relative Aphis ruborum. They are not wax coated. The usual body length of adult Aphis ulmariae apterae is 1.4 to 2.4 mm, but summer dwarfs are only 1.1 to 1.4 mm. Please provide close up images of the curled leaves and of the aphids inside. Please also state the host plant. Confirmation to species level may not always be possible without detailed examination. Anywhere that the host plants occur, such as streamsides, wet ditches etc. Most easily recorded on the host plant when it is in leaf. True status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records, but possibly rather infrequent. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Aphis_ulmariae_small_meadowsweet_aphid.htm
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Anywhere that the host plants occur, such as streamsides, wet ditches etc.
Seasonal Activity
Most easily recorded on the host plant when it is in leaf.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
See link below.
Additional species information
Recorded status
True status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records, but possibly rather infrequent.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Aphis ulmariae. 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 ulmariae (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Aphis ulmariae
What is Aphis ulmariae?
Aphis ulmariae is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Aphis ulmariae?
of adult Aphis ulmariae apterae is 1.4 to 2.4 mm, but summer dwarfs are only 1.1 to 1.4 mm.
Where is Aphis ulmariae found?
Habitat: Anywhere that the host plants occur, such as streamsides, wet ditches etc.
When is Aphis ulmariae active?
Aphis ulmariae: seasonal activity - Most easily recorded on the host plant when it is in leaf..
What is the life cycle of a Aphis ulmariae?
See link below.