Spread and occurrence of tulip tree aphid in Europe: new record of Illinoia liriodendri (Monell, 1879) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) from Hungary

The genus Illinoia is found primarily in North America. Illinoia liriodendri (Monell, 1879), the tulip tree aphid, was observed and identified for the first time in Hungary. Nymphs, apterous and alate viviparous females in colonies of I. liriodendri were found on a tulip tree, Liriodendron tulipifera L. (Magnoliaceae), in Debrecen, Hungary. Tulip tree aphids feed on the underside of tulip tree leaves. The consequences of this are honeydew and associated black sooty mould which is unsightly and causes sticky residues to drop onto footpaths and parked cars. If the infestation is very severe this may reduce photosynthesis. A short report is presented here on the first finding of this pest in Hungary, and its characteristics.