The hackberry woolly aphid (Shivaphis celti Das): A non-native insect and the ongoing study of biology, distribution, and impact on Celtis laevigata Willd

Sugarberry (Celtis laevigata Willd.) is a tree native to the US. The species has been dying in the southeastern US since 2009, causing an extensive Celtis mortality episode. During early investigations, hackberry woolly aphids (Shivaphis celti Das) were noted, and this nonnative species is continually observed on sugarberry with declining health. In addition to the impact of feeding, honeydew results in layers of sooty mold on leaves and appears to be associated with premature leaf fall. Little is known about the aphid and its impact, so we aim to understand the biology, distribution, and management strategies. We present biology and distribution information compiled from reviews and specimen records with preliminary data from an insecticide trial with potted trees. 


While collections and reports are limited, S. celti originated in central and southeast Asia, where it feeds on Celtis. In its native range, the species does not cause major damage, although reports of early leaf senescence from the aphids have been documented in the US. The first report of S. celti in the western hemisphere was from South Carolina (1996), and the species has since been observed throughout the southeast and other regions of the US. Our preliminary findings suggest the aphids are most prevalent mid-summer through fall in the south. Imidacloprid also appears to be an effective strategy for aphid management, while Ecotrol provided an intermediate effect. Additional studies are needed to determine optimal applications for urban and forested settings, and analysis of feeding damage impact is underway