Mediterranean mint aphid

Industry Update October 2007

Background of the detection

The Mediterranean mint aphid (Eucarazzia elegans) has recently been detected on sage plants in Victoria.

A previous detection of mint aphid on catmint in South Australia, just prior to the Victorian detection, was the first record of this pest in Australia.

It is native to the Mediterranean region, but has also been recorded in North and South America during the past 20 years.

The only known host plants of this aphid are members of the Lamiaceae family (Salvia, Mentha, Coleus, Nepeta, Lavandula etc.).

Symptoms

Heavy infestations of Mediterranean mint aphid may result in reduced plant vigour.

Summary of current situation

Mediterranean mint aphid is not considered to be of major economic importance. However, it may be appropriate to treat heavy infestations or commercial consignments showing signs of infestation.

Photos: Mediterranean mint aphid on blue sage (Salvia clevelandii) Photos Copyright: Peter J. Bryant University of California, Irvine