Peach–Potato Aphid
Scientific group or name: Myzus persicae
Overview
Myzus persicae is a highly polyphagous aphid and an important vector of plant viruses. Colonies may be green, yellowish or pink.
Host plants
A very broad range including peppers, potatoes, brassicas and ornamentals.
Identification
Adults are small and oval with relatively long cornicles. Colour is variable, so host, body features and microscopic examination may be needed.
Damage and symptoms
Sap removal causes distortion and honeydew. Virus transmission can be more damaging than direct feeding.
Lifecycle and favourable conditions
Warm protected crops can support rapid continuous reproduction. Winged aphids spread readily between plants.
Monitoring
Inspect young growth and leaf undersides and use yellow traps to detect winged migrants. Record colonies separately from isolated alates.
Management
Remove heavily infested growth where practical, control weeds, protect clean propagation material and avoid disruptive broad-spectrum sprays.
Biological control and natural enemies
Aphidius colemani, Aphidoletes aphidimyza, lacewings and ladybirds can contribute, depending on temperature and colony distribution.
Biological control should be selected only after the pest has been identified and the crop, temperature, growing environment and pest pressure have been considered.
Related BioWiki pages
This page provides general integrated pest-management information. Identification and control decisions should be confirmed for the crop and local situation.