Giant conifer aphid, Cinara spp.,

Fig. 52   Giant conifer aphid nymphs and adults.	Fig. 53  Chlorosis due to feeding by giant conifer aphid.	Fig. 54  Giant conifer aphid is a gregarious feeder. This large congregation is on spruce.

Distribution:  Throughout B.C. 

Tree Species Attacked: All native conifers are attacked, but especially lodgepole pine. It attacks predominately immature trees.

Insect Description & Damage Symptoms:  Adult giant conifer aphids are pear-shaped, 0.2 to 0.5 cm in length and usually dark-coloured. Adults have long, slender legs and may have wings. Nymphs are similar in shape and colour to adults, but lack wings and are slightly smaller. The aphids feed in a stationary group and may be found on branches, roots, or the main stem. A clear, sticky liquid, called honeydew, is exuded from the posterior of each aphid. Ants frequently harvest honeydew from the aphids. A black, sooty mold often develops on foliage and branches covered by honeydew. Foliage of infested trees may become chlorotic.

Damage:  Attack can cause growth reduction in young conifers. Studies have shown that the leaders of infested trees may be only one-quarter to one-half the length of similar non-infested trees. Aphid attack may predispose a tree to secondary insects, pathogenic fungi, or excessive drought stress.

Similar Damage: May be mistaken for needle cast or blight during a severe infestation. However, aphid damage is not as widespread as needle diseases. Look for aphids at the bases of affected needles.

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BC Ministry of Forests
Forest Practices Branch
P.O. Box 9513 Stn. Prov. Gov.
Victoria, BC
V8W 9C2

Section phone: (250) 387-8739
Section fax: (250) 387-2136

Last updated March 12, 2002