Distribution, host plants and natural enemies of sugar beet root aphid (Pemphigus fuscicornis) In Slovakia

During 2003-2004, field surveys were realized to observe the distribution of sugar beet aphid, Pemphigus fuscicornis (K o c h) (Sternorrhyncha Pemphigidae) in southwestern Slovakia. The research was carried out at 60 different localities with altitudes 112-220 m a. s. l. Sugar beet root aphid was recorded at 30 localities. The aphid was recorded in Slovakia for the first time, but its occurrence was predicted and symptoms and harmfulness overlooked by now. The presence of P. fuscicornis was investigated on roots of various plants from Chenopodiaceae. The most important host plants were various species of lambsquarters (above all Chenopodium album). Furthermore sugar beet (Beta vulgaris provar. altissima), red beet (B. vulgaris provar. conditiva) and oraches (Atriplex spp) act as host plants. Infestation of sugar beet by P. fuscicornis never exceeded 5% at single locality in Slovakia. Dry and warm weather create presumptions for strong harmfulness. In Slovakia, Chenopodium album is a very important indicator of sugar beet aphid presence allowing evaluation of control requirements. During the study, the larvae of Thaumatomyia glabra (Diptera: Chloropidae) were detected as important natural enemies of sugar beet aphid. The species occurred at each location evaluated.

Abstract licence: CC BY-NC-ND

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