Potato aphid

Definition

A polyphagous aphid species, Macrosiphum euphorbiae (family Aphididae), that feeds on phloem sap of Solanaceae and numerous other host plants. A major agricultural pest of potato (Solanum tuberosum), tomato, and pepper crops in temperate and subtropical regions worldwide. Populations can build rapidly through parthenogenesis, causing direct feeding damage, honeydew secretion, and transmission of viral pathogens including Potato leafroll virus and Potato virus Y.

Etymology

From the primary host plant potato (Solanum tuberosum) + aphid (family Aphididae)

Example

In integrated pest management programs, potato aphid populations are monitored using yellow water pan traps and threshold-based applications of selective aphicides to conserve natural enemies such as Aphidius ervi parasitoids and Hippodamia convergens lady beetles.

Synonyms

• Macrosiphum euphorbiae
• green peach aphid (misapplied—see note)
• tomato aphid (regional)

Related Terms

• Aphididae
• Macrosiphum
• phloem feeding
• Parthenogenesis
• Vector
• Potato leafroll virus
• Integrated Pest Management
• Economic threshold

Usage Notes

Not to be confused with Myzus persicae (green peach aphid), another major potato pest with similar biology but distinct morphology and virus transmission efficiency. The common name 'potato aphid' is sometimes applied loosely to any aphid infesting potatoes; precise identification requires examination of cornicles, cauda, and antennal tubercles. In North American agricultural extension literature, 'potato aphid' almost always refers specifically to M. euphorbiae.