Common sycamore aphid

<em>Drepanosiphum platanoidis</em> is a hemipteran insect in the family Drepanosiphidae, one of several aphid species closely associated with sycamore and maple trees. Native to Europe, it has been introduced to North America, where it is now established across much of the continent. This species forms colonies on the undersides of sycamore leaves, feeding on phloem sap and excreting honeydew, which can promote sooty mold growth and reduce host tree vigor. Populations typically peak in spring and early summer, then decline during hot, dry conditions before resurging in autumn. The common sycamore aphid reproduces both sexually and asexually, with winged adults dispersing to new host plants. It is Not Evaluated on the IUCN Red List, and its association with widely planted ornamental and urban trees means it is generally common wherever suitable hosts occur. Diet consists entirely of plant sap from sycamore and related Acer species. Biological traits such as body length, weight, and lifespan remain poorly documented in standardized assessments, though individuals typically complete multiple generations per growing season.