Neotropical Entomology (2020) 49, 445-455

J.R.S. Soares, J. da Silva Paes, V.C.R. de Araújo, T.A. de Araújo, R.S. Ramos, M.C. Picanço and J.C. Zanuncio (2020)
Spatiotemporal dynamics and natural mortality factors of Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in bell pepper crops
Neotropical Entomology 49 (3), 445-455
Abstract: Pest populations are mostly regulated by climate, intra- and interspecific competition, natural enemies, and host plant quality. Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is a widely adapted aphid in the agroecosystems and is one of the main bell pepper pests. In the present study, we determined the spatial and temporal dynamics and the regulatory factors of M. persicae populations in bell pepper crops. The number of aphids and their natural enemies were evaluated during 2 years in four commercial bell pepper fields. Myzus persicae density data were related to temperature, rainfall, and natural enemies by multiple regression analysis and were then submitted to geostatistical analysis. The density of M. persicae was higher during the plant's reproductive growth stage. Rainfall, Chrysoperla spp., and Toxomerus spp. regulate M. persicae populations. Initial infestations of this pest occur along the edges of the fields and subsequently spread towards the center. This information is useful for integrated management programs aimed at anticipating periods of higher abundance of M. persicae and identifying arthropods to be prioritized in biological control.
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Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Rodrigo Soares Ramos, José Cola Zanuncio

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
population dynamics/ epidemiology
environment - cropping system/rotation

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Myzus persicae	Green pepper/chilli (Capsicum)