Aphids and parasitoids on willows and poplars in southeastern Europe (Homoptera: Aphidoidea; Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Aphidiinae)

Abstract

Aphid and aphid parasitoid associations on willows (Salix spp.) and poplars (Populus spp.) in southeastern Europe are reviewed. In total 13 aphid parasitoid species were reared from aphids on these plants. The specific parasitoid complex of Acyrthosiphon cf. malvae (Mosley) on Salix retusa and the aphids and parasitoids composition on willows and poplars are discussed. The most frequently sampled and the most abundant parasitoid species in poplar aphid-aphid parasitoid associations was Adialytus salicaphis Fitch. Furthermore, Lysiphlebus confusus Tremblay & Eady was the most abundant species collected on willow-feeding aphids, whereas A. salicaphis, Euaphidius cingulatus (Ruthe) and Binodoxys heraclei (Haliday) were the most frequently sampled parasitoid species on willows. Trophic connections between aphids and parasitoids associated with willow agroecosystems are also discussed. A key for the identification of aphid parasitoids associated with aphids on willows and poplars in southeastern Europe is provided.