|
Green
Peach Aphid
Myzus persicae
|
Description
The green peach aphid is pear-shaped and varies in color from
a pale green to yellow or pink, even in the same colony. Winged
adults (alates) may be green with a dark irregular-shaped
blotch on the.back head and thorax.
|
Click
on image for larger version
Figure 1. Green Peach Aphid on Mum
|
Life
History
The green peach aphid is the most common aphid found on indoor ornamentals.
On indoor plantings, all adult aphids are winged or wingless unfertilized
females which give birth to living young. Winged individuals are
only produced when the colony becomes overcrowded. A single female
may give birth to 60 - 100 nymphs during her 20 - 30 day lifespan.
Young aphid nymphs may begin reproducing themselves just 6 - 10
days after birth. As a result, aphid colonies may build up quite
rapidly. They are prolific over a wide range of temperatures and
moderate humidity. Aphids prefer to feed in colonies on new growth
at the base of buds and on the underside of leaves. They also produce
large quantities of honeydew resulting in the development of sooty
mold and the presence of ants.
|
Click on image for larger
version
Figure 2. Green Peach Aphid on Pepper Plant
|
Damage
Feeding by the green peach aphid results in a wilting, deformation,
and retarded growth of the plant. Some species secrete various
toxic saliva or viruses, or mycoplasmas into plants causing
symptoms such as yellowing, stunting, and curling of the foliage.
|
Nonchemical
Control
Pruning out or washing off aphids from plant, releasing predators
(lady beetles and green lacewings) may provide effective control.
Chemical
Control
Insecticidal sprays may be applied when aphids become numerous.
|
|
|
|
