Hawthorn-carrot Aphid group - Dysaphis crataegi group

Description

The aphid Dysaphis crataegi causes galls to form on the leaves of Hawthorn (Crataegus sp.) in spring. The gall takes the form of a crimson or purplish red upward bulge (not affecting the whole leaf).  Waxy grey aphids are present underneath.   

The aphids migrate to umbellifers (Apiaceae) in summer. There are several species in this group that require detailed examination by an expert and we have therefore decided to include these as Dysaphis crataegi group.

Similar Species

Other Dysaphis cause similar galls, and the vacated galls may also be used by aphids of other species.  The fungus Taphrina crataegi can cause similar blisters and bulges on Hawthorn in April/May

Identification difficulty

Adult Gall

ID checklist (your specimen should have all of these features)
Recording advice

Check underside for aphids.  It is difficult to distinguish this gall from Dysaphis ranunculi on Hawthornand expert advice should be sought. 

Habitat

Wherever the host plants are present.

When to see it

Aphids are usually present on Hawthorn in April and May before migrating to umbellifers. The Hawthorn galls persist whilst the plant is in leaf.

UK Status

It is difficult to determine the exact status in Britain due to lack of records.

VC55 Status

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Species profile

Species group:
Bugs
Kingdom:
Animalia
Order:
Hemiptera
Family:
Aphididae
Records on NatureSpot:
5
First record:
22/09/2016 (Grimes, Martin)
Last record:
12/05/2022 (lemmon, roy)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

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