ARS | Publication request: Host range and biology of Uroleucon (Lambersius) erigeronense (Thomas 1878), and its identity with Uroleucon (Lambersius) escalantii (Knowlton) 1928 (Hemiptera: Aphididae)

Submitted to: Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: November 2, 2009
Publication Date: May 24, 2010
Citation: Jensen, A.S., Miller, G.L., Carmichael, A. 2010. Host range and biology of Uroleucon (Lambersius) erigeronense (Thomas 1878), and its identity with Uroleucon (Lambersius) escalantii (Knowlton) 1928 (Hemiptera: Aphididae). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 112(2):239-245.

Interpretive Summary: The feeding damage of aphids and their ability to transmit diseases causes annual losses in the billions of dollars to world agricultural crops. It is critical that proper identification be established before any control program can start. Based on examination of preserved specimens from many hosts and localities, using data from host plant transfers, and DNA sequences, it was determined that two aphid species previously considered separate species are in fact the same species. This information on species clarification is invaluable for plant quarantine inspectors, state and federal identifiers, invasive species specialists, and aphid systematists.

Technical Abstract: Uroleucon (Lambersius) escalantii (Knowlton) (n. syn.) is declared a junior synonym of Uroleucon (Lambersius) erigeronense (Thomas)based on examination of slide mounted material from many hosts and localities, using data from host plant transfers, and DNA sequences. A diagnosis and new information on the host plant biology of the species are also provided. This information is important in establishing the species concept of U. erigeronense.