Eriosoma lanuginosum
This record describes Eriosoma lanuginosum (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Eriosoma lanuginosum is an aphid which causes the formation of a leaf gall on Elm which takes the form of a bladder looking like a pale green egg or pear which may be 6 or even 8 cm long and nearly as wide. The gall is more often seen than the adult aphid. state the host plant, and provide a photo Look for galls in June and July although they may persist over winter in a hardened form. Aphids feed inside the gall protected from predators. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Eriosoma_lanuginosum_elm_balloon-gall_aphid.htm No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On elms, usually small leaved elms
Seasonal Activity
Look for galls in June and July although they may persist over winter in a hardened form.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Aphids feed inside the gall protected from predators.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Uncommon in Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Eriosoma lanuginosum. 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 Eriosoma lanuginosum (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Eriosoma lanuginosum
What is Eriosoma lanuginosum?
Eriosoma lanuginosum is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Eriosoma lanuginosum found?
Habitat: On elms, usually small leaved elms
When is Eriosoma lanuginosum active?
Eriosoma lanuginosum: seasonal activity - Look for galls in June and July although they may persist over winter in a hardened form..
What is the life cycle of a Eriosoma lanuginosum?
Aphids feed inside the gall protected from predators.