Elatobium abietinum
This record describes Elatobium abietinum (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
A pale to dark green aphid found on spruce ( Picea ) or silver fir ( Abies ) needles, usually Sitka Spruce ( Picea sitchensis ). See Infuential Points (link below) for a description. It sometimes causes defoliation and can be a serious pest of Sitka Spruce plantations. Unusually, both apterae and nymphs continue to be active through the winter. see Influental Points page for Elatobium abietinum No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Spruce or silver fir trees
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Unusually, both apterae and nymphs continue to be active through the winter.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Elatobium abietinum. 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 Elatobium abietinum (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Elatobium abietinum
What is Elatobium abietinum?
Elatobium abietinum is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Elatobium abietinum found?
Habitat: Spruce or silver fir trees
What is the life cycle of a Elatobium abietinum?
Unusually, both apterae and nymphs continue to be active through the winter.