Identification key for cotton-feeding aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae) found in pan traps in the Southeast

Authors: MAHAS, JESSICA - Auburn University; RAY, CHARLES - Auburn University; HAMILTON, FREDRICKA - Auburn University; Miller, Gary; JACOBSON, ALANA - Auburn University

Submitted to: Florida Entomologist
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/31/2025
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: The introduction of CLRDV into the southeastern U.S. cotton belt has prompted research into understanding the epidemiology of the virus, including identification of insect vectors. Aphids are the only known vectors of this virus family. There are eight species of aphids known to feed on cotton in the U.S., and of them, only the cotton aphid has been reported to transmit CLRDV to cotton. Population dynamics of aphids and CLRDV spread throughout the year may help identify other vector species. Using insect traps to monitor populations of these aphids is ideal. However, current identification keys for aphids are lacking. Here, we present a modified key for identifying cotton infesting aphids from pan traps in the southeastern U.S., including the eight species known to feed on cotton. Pictures are provided to aid in the identification of aphid species.

Technical Abstract: The introduction of cotton leafroll dwarf virus (CLRDV) into the southeastern U.S. cotton belt has prompted research into understanding the epidemiology, including identification of insect vectors. Aphids are the only known vectors of poleroviruses in the family Solemoviridae. There are eight species of aphids known to feed on cotton in the U.S., and of them, only Aphis gossypii has been reported to transmit CLRDV to cotton, to date. Population dynamics of alatae aphids and additional information regarding CLRDV spread throughout the year may help identify other vector species. Using insect traps to monitor populations of these aphids is ideal for monitoring the seven that are seldom observed, or difficult to sample because they feed underground on roots. However, current identification keys for aphids rely on using apterous colonies already infesting known host plants. Here, we present a modified key for identifying cotton infesting aphids from pan traps in the southeastern U.S., including A. gossypii, Protaphis middletonii, Aphis craccivora, Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominale, Macrosiphum euphorbiae, Myzus persicae, Aphis fabae, and Smythurodes betae. Pictures are provided to aid in the identification of aphid species.