Aphids Phrorodon cannabis, Aphis gossypii, Myzus spp.
Key Features of Aphids: Successful control of aphids using biocontrol agents requires swift action and proper identification. Slow moving and easily crushed between two fingers, aphids are deceptive. They’re easy to kill...Right?
FAQs About Aphids
Aphids of all species feed directly on plant sap that would otherwise be used to fuel growth and production. Additionally, the excess sap that is not digested by the Aphid is excreted onto the plant tissue which can host fungal pathogens such as Sooty Mold and attract ants which will "farm" and protect the Aphid populations from natural enemies. Most Aphid species will transmit viruses throughout a crop which can drastically affect yields.
Aphids are a cosmopolitan family of plant pests which occur in every temperate region in the world. Individual species can survive on several plant host species throughout the year which allows them to infest agricultural and horticultural crops nearly year-round. Their flying form (known as alate or winged Aphids) is capable of travelling great distances with the help of winds. Serious Aphid infestations are likely when the crop is over-fertilized with Nitrogen or otherwise weak or stressed.
Low levels of Aphids will likely not have much effect on plant health and, if treated quickly and properly, should not affect the life of the plant. Serious infestations of Aphid will stunt plant growth, sometimes permanently, as well as cause secondary infections of viruses or pathogens like Sooty Mold.
Aphids rarely lay eggs and instead give birth to living young or nymphs. This is why Aphid populations can spread so quickly: their young emerge and begin feeding on the plant almost immediately. These hotspots of Aphid can quickly expand to cover entire leaves or stems since their reproduction takes place in the immediate vicinity of the feeding adult.
Aphids are possible at any time of year in a greenhouse or indoor facility. Outdoor temperatures in the winter usually keep Aphid populations at bay until the spring or summer. Depending on Aphid species, many host plants are available to allow overwintering in outdoor environments, a form of hibernation which allows the pest to quickly repopulate the area once conditions are viable.
Questions About Aphids?
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