In Australia, several species of aphids can be found affecting various plants, including vegetables. Here are some common aphid species and their visual descriptions:
- Green peach aphid (Myzus persicae)
The green peach aphid is pale to bright green, oval-shaped, and about 2 mm long. They have a pair of tube-like structures called cornicles at the rear end of their body. They can be found on a variety of plants, including stone fruit trees, brassicas, and many ornamental plants.
- Cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae)
Cabbage aphids are greyish-green in colour, oval-shaped, and about 2.5 mm long. Their bodies are covered with a waxy, powdery secretion, giving them a dusty appearance. They are primarily found on plants in the Brassicaceae family, such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower.
- Black bean aphid (Aphis fabae)
The black bean aphid is dark brown to black in colour and about 2 mm long. They have a pear-shaped body with cornicles at the rear end. These aphids are found on a variety of plants, including beans, beetroot, and some ornamental plants.
- Cotton aphid (Aphis gossypii)
The cotton aphid is a small, oval-shaped insect about 1-2 mm long. Their colour can vary from pale yellow to green, and they have black cornicles at the rear end. They can be found on a variety of plants, such as cotton, cucumber, and pumpkin.
- Potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae)
The potato aphid is a larger species, measuring between 2.5-3.5 mm long. They have an elongated, pear-shaped body and can be found in various colours, ranging from pink, green, to brownish. They have dark cornicles, and their legs can be light or dark. These aphids primarily affect potato plants but can also infest other vegetables and ornamentals.
- Rose aphid (Macrosiphum rosae)
The rose aphid is light green to pink in colour and about 2-3 mm long. They have a pear-shaped body with long antennae and cornicles. As their name suggests, they are primarily found on roses but can infest other plants as well.
By identifying and understanding the visual differences between various aphid species in Australia, you can better target your pest control efforts and maintain a healthy garden.
