Dock Aphid
Aphis rumicis
This record describes Aphis rumicis (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
The wingless form has a length of 2 to 2.7 mm and is black to very dark greenish-brown. The winged form is also mainly black in colour. It is similar to another Dock feeder Aphis fabae but that species does not cause the leaf edges of Dock to curl. Feeds mainly on Dock causing the leaves to roll or crumple before later in the year moving up stems and into the inflorescences. Distribution and status in Britain are difficult to gauge as the species is poorly recorded. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Aphis_rumicis_dock_aphid.htm
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Feeds mainly on Dock causing the leaves to roll or crumple before later in the year moving up stems and into the inflorescences.
Seasonal Activity
Summer and autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Distribution and status in Britain are difficult to gauge as the species is poorly recorded.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Aphis rumicis. 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 Dock Aphid (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dock Aphid
What is Dock Aphid?
Dock Aphid (Aphis rumicis) is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Dock Aphid?
of 2 to 2.7 mm and is black to very dark greenish-brown. The winged form is also mainly black in colour.
Where is Dock Aphid found?
Habitat: Feeds mainly on Dock causing the leaves to roll or crumple before later in the year moving up stems and into the inflorescences.
When is Dock Aphid active?
Dock Aphid: seasonal activity - Summer and autumn..