Schizaphis scirpi
This record describes Schizaphis scirpi (species). Recorded family: Aphididae. Recorded order: Hemiptera.
Identification and Appearance
Apterae of Schizaphis scirpi are shiny dark bronze-brown to reddish brown or blackish with a body length of 1.5 to 2.8 mm. Fur further details see the 'Further Information' link below. Please provide good close up images and state the host plant. Wetland areas where Bulrush or Bur-reed species occur. Schizaphis scirpi lives in ant-attended colonies at the leaf-bases of Bulrush and Bur-reed species, also using other water plants at times. They do not host alternate. True status is difficult to determine as it does not seem to be well recorded in Britain. https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Schizaphis_scirpi_bulrush_aphid.htm No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Wetland areas where Bulrush or Bur-reed species occur.
Seasonal Activity
Summer
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Schizaphis scirpi lives in ant-attended colonies at the leaf-bases of Bulrush and Bur-reed species, also using other water plants at times. They do not host alternate.
Additional species information
Recorded status
True status is difficult to determine as it does not seem to be well recorded in Britain.
About True Bugs, Cicadas, Hoppers, Aphids and Allies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hemiptera, the group containing Schizaphis scirpi. 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 Schizaphis scirpi (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Schizaphis scirpi
What is Schizaphis scirpi?
Schizaphis scirpi is a species in the family Aphididae, within the order Hemiptera.
How big is Schizaphis scirpi?
of 1.5 to 2.8 mm. Fur further details see the
Where is Schizaphis scirpi found?
Habitat: Wetland areas where Bulrush or Bur-reed species occur.
When is Schizaphis scirpi active?
Schizaphis scirpi: seasonal activity - Summer.
What is the life cycle of a Schizaphis scirpi?
Schizaphis scirpi lives in ant-attended colonies at the leaf-bases of Bulrush and Bur-reed species, also using other water plants at times. They do not host alternate.