Nettle Aphid

Nettle Aphid - Microlophium carnosum

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Description

A very variable species with winged and unwinged forms that may be various colours, often green or pink.

Identification difficulty
Habitat

On Common Nettle.

When to see it

Spring and summer.

Life History

The winged females are able to reproduce by parthenogenesis (asexually), giving birth to pregnant offspring. This phenomenon is known as telescoping generations. The generation of young produced by winged adults are able to reproduce sexually.

UK Status

Common throughout Britain.

VC55 Status

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Further Information

https://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Microlophium_carnosum.htm

  • David Nicholls
    Ratby
    05 May 2016
  • David Nicholls
    Abbey Park
    20 May 2011
  • Graham Calow
    Sapcote garden1
    14 May 2014
    winged form
  • David Nicholls
    Abbey Park
    20 May 2011
    winged form
  • Alan Semper
    Harby garden
    11 October 2013
  • Barbara Cooper
    Long Clawson
    17 May 2014

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

All NatureSpot records