What agricultural crops are specifically targeted by the Yellow Aphid Complex?
Pecan (*Carya illinoinensis*) and hickory trees
In agricultural contexts, particularly in commercial nut production, growers contend with the Yellow Aphid Complex. This is not a single species but rather a grouping of several aphid species whose collective feeding behavior targets specific tree hosts. The primary economic concern relates to the impact these aphids have on pecan production, meaning the complex specifically targets the pecan tree, scientifically known as *Carya illinoinensis*, as well as closely related hickory trees. Unlike the highly host-restricted Oleander Aphid, this complex is exclusively associated with these designated tree hosts in orchard settings, often causing visible distortion and yellowing of the developing leaves and nuts.
