Abstract

SZPEINER, Alfonsina. Aphididae (Hemiptera) on ornamental plants in Córdoba (Argentina). Rev. Soc. Entomol. Argent. [online]. 2008, vol.67, n.1-2, pp.49-56. ISSN 0373-5680.

In 30 surveys across Cordoba city and surroundings (Argentina) I recorded, from November 2001 to May 2002, a total of 109 ornamental plants infested with aphid colonies. Surveys were conducted in the local botanical garden as well as homestead gardens and nurseries. Seventeen species of aphids were identified, 4 of which are new species in the area, from 47 ornamental plants. In a total of 59 plant/aphid associations, 38 new associations were found. I present the first record of aphids colonizing Cactaceae in Argentina. Most aphid colonies were medium and a high proportion (more than 40%) showed alate individuals. The most frequent aphid species, Aphis gossypii Glover and Aphis craccivora Koch were especially associated with the most frequent damages: curled leaves or buds and necrosis, respectively. More than 30% of aphid colonies were attended by ants. Camponotus Mayr and Prenolepis Mayr were the ant genus attending the highest number of aphid species.

Keywords : Aphids; Ornamental plants; Richness; Damages; Urban areas.

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