Nettle Aphid
Microlophium carnosum
This record describes Microlophium carnosum (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
A very variable species with winged and unwinged forms that may be various colours, often green or pink. The winged females are able to reproduce by parthenogenesis (asexually), giving birth to pregnant offspring. This phenomenon is known as telescoping generations. The generation of young produced by winged adults are able to reproduce sexually. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Microlophium_carnosum.htm
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On Common Nettle.
Seasonal Activity
Spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The winged females are able to reproduce by parthenogenesis (asexually), giving birth to pregnant offspring. This phenomenon is known as telescoping generations. The generation of young produced by winged adults are able to reproduce sexually.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common throughout Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Microlophium carnosum. 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 Nettle Aphid (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Nettle Aphid
What is Nettle Aphid?
Nettle Aphid (Microlophium carnosum) is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
Where is Nettle Aphid found?
Habitat: On Common Nettle.
When is Nettle Aphid active?
Nettle Aphid: seasonal activity - Spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Nettle Aphid?
The winged females are able to reproduce by parthenogenesis (asexually), giving birth to pregnant offspring. This phenomenon is known as telescoping generations. The generation of young produced by winged adults are able to reproduce sexually.