Cotton/Melon Aphid
Aphis gossypii
Overview
The Cotton/Melon Aphid (Aphis gossypii) is a major pest of cotton, cucumbers, melons and other cucurbits, and many ornamentals crops such as hibiscus.
Cotton Aphids are distinguished from other aphids by the colour of two projections on their abdomens (siphunculi). These siphunculi are always black, no matter what colour their body is. Body colour varies from light yellow to greenish-black, depending on the temperature, the food source and population density. The species prefers the underside of leaves and young tissue.
Why you need to control Cotton/Melon Aphid
Cotton Aphids are important carriers of viruses and transmit more than 40, including Cucumber Mosaic Virus.
The Cotton Aphid may also cause damage in the same way as other aphids, by sucking plant sap, secreting honeydew and depositing toxic substances. Sooty mould fungi grow on the sticky honeydew secretions, giving the affected leaves and fruit a black appearance. The sooty mould is difficult to remove, often making parts of the crops unsaleable.
Beneficial predators to control Cotton/Melon Aphid among crops
Cotton Aphids are controlled by Aphidius colemani (Colemani).
Other parasites will also attack it but A. Colemani has the best effect if environmental conditions are suitable. Ladybirds, lacewings and hoverflies also attack Cotton/Melon Aphid.
Get tailored advice for your commercial crop
To speak with one of our qualified consultants about your current commercial crop challenge or to learn about the benefits of the IPM maintenance and monitoring services we provide, contact us.
Sign up to our mailing list
Subscribe to hear about new products, industry updates and company news.