Bow-legged fir aphid
Cinara curvipes
15 host plants
Last updated
This profile contains verified pest data from extension databases. Regional field notes and expert review are in progress.
On silver fir, grand fir, white fir, and other true firs, look for blue-gray or blackish aphids clustered on twig terminals in spring and summer. Infested foliage will be sticky with honeydew; sooty mold may coat areas. The distinctive bent-leg posture of these larger conifer aphids makes them recognizable on new growth.
Water spray can dislodge light populations but may be impractical for tall trees. Horticultural oil applied in March targets overwintering nymphs on bark. If populations persist on accessible branches, insecticidal soap applied in May or June provides control. Preserve natural predators by avoiding broad-spectrum insecticides. Damage mostly cosmetic.
Quick Reference
All these aphids are light green in color. Spirea aphid is very difficult to separate from apple aphid without high magnification, whereas apple grain aphid can be distinguished by a yellowish green stripe down the middle of the back. Apple grain aphids infest pear only in the early part of the season, while apple aphid is present all summer. Aphids suck plant sap and live in colonies on new shoots. Populations are damaging only sporadically. Damage appears as rolled leaves, stunted terminal...
Cultural Controls
- biological control Many parasites and predators attack aphid.
- Monitor the proportion of aphid mummies to unparasitized adults and the number of predators such as lady beetles.
- If the biocontrol agents appear to be gaining control, avoid sprays which would disrupt this system.
- Most products available for aphid control are highly disruptive of natural enemies.
- Management-cultural control Aphid populations tend to be higher in plants that are fertilized liberally with nitrogen.
- Prune out suckers...