Hellebore Aphid
Macrosiphum hellebori
This record describes Macrosiphum hellebori (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
A largely pale green aphid around 3 mm long with black bands above the 'knees' and dark 'feet'. Infests the flowers and foliage of hellebores. A sap feeding aphid and one of the most important pests of hellebores. Widespread in Britain and fairly frequent in areas where the host plants are found. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Macrosiphum_hellebori_Hellebore_aphid.htm
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Infests the flowers and foliage of hellebores.
Seasonal Activity
Spring.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
A sap feeding aphid and one of the most important pests of hellebores.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in Britain and fairly frequent in areas where the host plants are found.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Macrosiphum hellebori. 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 Hellebore Aphid (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hellebore Aphid
What is Hellebore Aphid?
Hellebore Aphid (Macrosiphum hellebori) is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Hellebore Aphid found?
Habitat: Infests the flowers and foliage of hellebores.
When is Hellebore Aphid active?
Hellebore Aphid: seasonal activity - Spring..
What is the life cycle of a Hellebore Aphid?
A sap feeding aphid and one of the most important pests of hellebores.