Brachycaudus helichrysi
This record describes Brachycaudus helichrysi (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Brachycaudus helichrysi aphids causes distortion of leaves of various Prunus species (primary host) causing the leaves to become rolled up tightly in spring. These are not true galls, and other aphids may cause similar leaf distortions. Aphids 2 mm, greenish, yellowish or brownish, somewhat waxy; siphunculi very short; antennae shorter than the body with a darkened tip. The secondary hosts are usually Asteraceae and Boraginaceae. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. True status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Brachycaudus_helichrysi_Leaf-curling_plum_aphid.htm
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hemiptera (True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies)
- Suborder
- Sternorrhyncha
- Superfamily
- Aphidoidea
- Family
- Aphididae (Aphids)
- Subfamily
- Aphidinae
- Tribe
- Macrosiphini
- Genus
- Brachycaudus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
various Prunus species.
Seasonal Activity
when the host species are in leaf.
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 Brachycaudus helichrysi. 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 Brachycaudus helichrysi (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Brachycaudus helichrysi
What is Brachycaudus helichrysi?
Brachycaudus helichrysi is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Brachycaudus helichrysi found?
Habitat: various Prunus species.
When is Brachycaudus helichrysi active?
Brachycaudus helichrysi: seasonal activity - when the host species are in leaf..