Early-season feeding by large mixed aphid populations of Monellia caryella (Fitch) and Monelliopsis pecanis Bissell on mature ‘Stuart’ pecans (Carya illinoensis [Koch]) had a major adverse influence on tree productivity, growth, and energy reserves. Nut volume and weight, shoot starch, and reducing sugars were reduced during early fruit development. Similarly, nut volume and weight, kernel weight and lipid content, leaf area and chlorophyll content, shoot starch and reducing sugars, and nut yield were reduced at fruit maturity. Leaflet shedding and subsequent secondary mid-season shoot growth was associated with high aphid levels.
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Tedders et al. (1985) studied this question.