Green Peach Aphid (Myzus persicae)
Family: Aphididae
The green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) is a globally distributed pest affecting vegetable, fruit, and ornamental crops. It is known for producing significant quantities of honeydew, which can lead to the development of sooty mold. Additionally, this aphid serves as a vector for numerous plant viruses, making it a critical concern in agricultural settings.
Biocontrol Strategies:
Hippodamia convergens (HippoLiv):
Overview: H. convergens, commonly known as the convergent lady beetle, is widely recognized for its aphid predation capabilities.
Application: The beetles supplied by GrowLiv Biologicals are laboratory-reared and prepared to oviposit upon release. This ensures immediate predation and control of aphid populations.
Chrysoperla carnea (ChrysoLiv):
Overview: C. carnea, or the green lacewing, is nicknamed the aphid lion for its preference of aphids as prey.
Limitations: While it is not as aggressive as lady beetles and lacks flight capability, limiting its dispersal, it remains a valuable component in integrated pest management (IPM) programs. Using the egg stage of ChrysoLiv is an economical way to keep a range of pests under control.
Aphidius colemani (AphidLiv).:
Overview: Aphidius parasitoids have demonstrated efficacy in aphid control.
Strategy: Utilizing aphid banker plants to establish a parasitoid population prior to aphid infestation can result in optimal control outcomes.
Orius insidiosus (OriLiv) and Dicyphus hesperus (MiriLiv) :
Overview: Both Orius and Dicyphus are generalist predators that include aphids in their diet.
Role: They contribute to the biocontrol strategy by preying on aphids and other common greenhouse pests such as thrips and whiteflies, thereby enhancing the overall efficacy of integrated pest management (IPM) approaches.
Implementing these biocontrol agents as part of an integrated pest management strategy can effectively reduce aphid populations, ensuring crop health and productivity. To learn more about integrating biocontrol into your farm, contact us today.