(Chaitophorus populicola) Family: Aphididae
Description: Smoky-winged aphids (C. populicola) are dark brown to black in color, and they can vary from solid dark coloration to both green and dark coloration (see images below). Winged individuals have black marks on their otherwise clear wings.
Biology: Smoky-winged aphids feed on poplars (Populus) and aspen (Populus). They feed on plant juices (phloem), which are rich in sugar yet low in essential nutrients like amino acids. To get enough nutrients, they pump through large quantities of phloem and excrete the excess sugar as “honey dew.” This honey dew makes a sticky coating on the plant and attracts other insects, such as ants. The aphids feed gregariously in colonies, and their populations can reach outbreak levels under certain conditions.
Range: Common throughout North America
Where they are found on aspen: Smoky-winged poplar aphids are typically found on the newly developing leaves on the tree. They are prevalent on the upper surface of the leaves near the base of the leaf (where the phloem supply is greatest) and/or on the leaf petioles. They can also be found on short shoots of preformed leaves in the lower canopy. They are typically accompanied by tending ants (hence, if you notice ants on the tree, follow their movements, and you’ll likely find aphids).
Helpful Resources:
Wis(consin) Asp(en) Insect Communities 