Aphis viburni
This record describes Aphis viburni (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Apterae of Aphis viburni are slate-coloured, brownish green or dark brown, sometimes with paired pleural wax spots on the abdomen. Of all the 'black aphid' group, A. viburni is probably the most variable in colour. Aphis viburni can most readily be distinguished from A. fabae (which can also use Guelder-rose as a primary host) by the gall like gathering of strongly curled leaves (see pictures) that it produces. A. fabae does not produce a gall. The gall provides shelter for both the aphids and attendant ants. Best recorded when present in a gall-like gathering of leaves on Guelder-rose. True status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Aphis_viburni_viburnum_aphid.htm
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Where Guelder-rose is present.
Seasonal Activity
Late spring and summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
True status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Aphis viburni. 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 viburni (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Aphis viburni
What is Aphis viburni?
Aphis viburni is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Aphis viburni found?
Habitat: Where Guelder-rose is present.
When is Aphis viburni active?
Aphis viburni: seasonal activity - Late spring and summer..