Lachnus roboris
This record describes Lachnus roboris (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Lachnus roboris apterae are shining blackish brown. The body length of an adult L. roboris aptera is 2.5 to 5.5 mm. L. roboris alates have the forewing membrane pigmented except for four clear patches (hence the common name ‘Variegated’ Oak Aphid). Good close up photographs required please. Found on twigs and small branches of Oak ( Quercus sp.) and sometimes Sweet Chestnut ( Castanea sativa ). Apterous oviparae and large alate males occur in September-October and produce eggs which overwinter. True status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Lachnus_roboris_variegated_oak_aphid.htm
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found on twigs and small branches of Oak (
Seasonal Activity
Summer and autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Apterous oviparae and large alate males occur in September-October and produce eggs which overwinter.
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 Lachnus roboris. 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 Lachnus roboris (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Lachnus roboris
What is Lachnus roboris?
Lachnus roboris is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Lachnus roboris?
of an adult
Where is Lachnus roboris found?
Habitat: Found on twigs and small branches of Oak (
When is Lachnus roboris active?
Lachnus roboris: seasonal activity - Summer and autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Lachnus roboris?
Apterous oviparae and large alate males occur in September-October and produce eggs which overwinter.