Poplar spiral gall aphid (Pemphigus spyrothecae)

Sometimes when we look our poplars we may be surprised or even frightened - there are weird formations on the petiole.

Spiral gall aphid (Pemphigus spyrothecae). Photo: Ravel Reiljan

What is it?

No need to be frightened but is allowed to be surprised - there are spiral gall aphids in action.

Is it dangerous?

Generally, they do not cause significant damage to the tree in its activities, but you should have to be careful - see below.

Does they live in all poplar species?

Specific aphid operates normally only in the following species: Berlin poplar (Populus berolinensis), Italy poplar (Populus nigra `Italica`) and in the black poplar (Populus nigra).

Why they attack my tree?

So far  I have met them in the trees who are some reason in the strong stress - as excessive aridity/humidity of soil, salting of streets (alley trees), bad maintenance and so on.

What to do?
It is wise to contact with arborist - arborist will examine the situation and gives advice what to do further.
Aphids are symptoms - they show that something is wrong with our tree, it needs help - there must be an ultimate cause.

You can read more about Pemphigus spyrothecae: http://www.agriculturejournals.cz/publicFiles/55823.pdf

Source: Urbandendro
http://ravelreiljan.blogspot.com/