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.

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.

Green Peach Aphid on Pepper Plant
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.