About Arctic Aphid
A small, pale green aphid that is one of the most northerly herbivorous insects on Earth. It feeds on the sap of Dryas octopetala and other Arctic plants. Populations are entirely parthenogenetic in the High Arctic.
Did You Know?
This aphid reproduces entirely without mating in the Arctic, producing live young that are clones of the mother.
How to Identify Arctic Aphid
Arctic Aphid (Acyrthosiphon svalbardicum) belongs to the order Hemiptera, family Aphididae. Adults typically measure 1-3 mm.
Arctic Aphid Habitat
Arctic Aphid is found in tundra & arctic habitats, particularly across Svalbard, Arctic Scandinavia, Greenland. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Arctic Aphid Diet and Feeding
Arctic Aphid is a herbivore, feeding on plant material including leaves, stems, flowers, and other vegetation. Herbivorous insects play a significant role in ecosystems by influencing plant growth and serving as a food source for predators.
Where Is Arctic Aphid Found?
Arctic Aphid can be found in Svalbard, Arctic Scandinavia, Greenland, where it inhabits tundra & arctic environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Arctic Aphid can be found
Is Arctic Aphid Dangerous?
Arctic Aphid is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Arctic Aphid Role in Nature
Arctic Aphid is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Arctic Aphid
What does Arctic Aphid look like?
The Arctic Aphid typically measures 1-3 mm.
Where is Arctic Aphid found?
The Arctic Aphid is found in Svalbard, Arctic Scandinavia, Greenland and typically inhabits tundra & arctic environments.
What does Arctic Aphid eat?
The Arctic Aphid feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.
Is Arctic Aphid dangerous to humans?
The Arctic Aphid is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Arctic Aphid?
This aphid reproduces entirely without mating in the Arctic, producing live young that are clones of the mother.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Arctic Aphid (Acyrthosiphon svalbardicum). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/arctic-aphid
MLA:
"Arctic Aphid." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/arctic-aphid.