Cryptic species in the aphid genusMelaphisWalsh (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Eriosomatinae)

Abstract

AbstractMelaphis rhoisFitch (Hemiptera: Aphididae) has been considered the only North American representative of the aphid subtribe Melaphidina. Molecular and morphometric analysis indicates that there are at least three sympatric cryptic melaphidine species in North America.Melaphis asafitchinew speciesis described andM. rhoisis redefined and a neotype designated. The nameMelaphis minutaBaker cannot be assigned to either of these species. Details of the life cycles ofMelaphisWalsh species, including the existence of ovoviviparity in sexual females, is discussed.