The yellow rose aphid originates from North America and is of average size (1.2-1.5mm). The colour is mainly yellow-green to green with a light brown head. A red morph is also known. They have two large antennal tubercles. The antennae are slightly longer than their body. The siphons and cauda are long with dark tips. The legs are light with dark spots around knees and feet. In greenhouses the aphid can overwinter as a viviparous morph.
Yellow rose aphid damage and distribution
The yellow rose aphid is usually found in young, closed leaves and flower buds. The aphid does not cause leaf-curling. Yellow rose aphids are an important pest in indoor strawberry crops.Leaf-curling, yellowing or growth reduction barely occurs. The large production of honeydew makes the crop sticky and dirty, causing black sooty mold fungus growth hampering photosynthesis. This causes economic damage. Yellow rose aphid is known for transferring plant viruses.
