Date: 2022 Author: Jianhua Mo
Several species of aphids are found on citrus including:
Aphids are small (about 2 mm long), soft-bodied insects with characteristic tubular extensions to the abdomen. Adults can be winged or unwinged. Aphids have complex life cycles; when conditions are good, the females can reproduce asexually, then during winter, they can reproduce sexually (Figure 7). Aphids can build up large populations quickly. However, in environments undisrupted by pesticide use, aphids are normally kept at low levels by a suite of beneficial insects.
Aphids feed on plant sap using their sucking mouthparts, distorting shoots and transmitting plant viruses. They also produce honeydew, which encourages sooty mould growth.
Check young shoots in early September and late October for spring flush, and February to April for summer–autumn flush. Examine 5 to 10 young leaves from each shoot for aphids, honeydew and sooty mould.
Users of agricultural (or veterinary) chemical products must always read the label and any Permit before using the product, and strictly comply with the directions on the label and the conditions of any Permit. Users are not absolved from compliance with the directions on the label or the conditions of the Permit by reason of any statement made or not made in this publication.
Pesticide residues may occur in animals treated with pesticides, or fed any crop product, including crop waste, that has been sprayed with pesticides.
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