General The beet armyworm (Spodoptera exigua) has become a regular problem for horticulturalists due to its resistance to nearly all insecticides, and its ability to develop on wild vegetation during
General The cotton bollworm ( Helicoverpa armigera ) occurs in the tropics and sub-tropics of all continents except for North America. Larvae of the cotton bollworm ( Helicoverpa armigera ) are highly
Biological control of caterpillars Caterpillars are highly destructive pests that feed on leaves, stems and fruits, causing serious damage to greenhouse and field crops. Their feeding reduces photosyn
General The cotton aphid ( Aphis gossypii ) is an extremely polyphagous aphid found on more than 700 plant species. Crop plants attacked by this aphid include cotton, citrus, coffee, cocoa, eggplant,
General The tobacco aphid ( Myzus persicae subsp. nicotianae ) probably evolved from the peach potato aphid in the Far East and is a key pest of tobacco crops in both the United States and South Ameri
General The onion thrips (Thrips tabaci) is distributed throughout the world. It is found outdoors on many plants and particularly damaging on onions, leek, and in greenhouses on cucurbits, tomato, sw
General The tomato russet mite (Aculops lycopersici , also referred to as Vasates lycopersici, Vasates destructor and Phyllocoptes destructor in older publications) belongs to the family Eriophyidae.
Biological control of mealybugs and scales Mealybugs and scale insects are persistent pests that feed on plant sap, weakening crops and producing honeydew that leads to sooty mould. Infestations reduc
General The American serpentine leaf miner ( Liriomyza trifolii ) originates from North America, but occurs also in Europe since about 1976. The American serpentine leaf miner ( Liriomyza trifolii ) i
Biological control of leaf miners Leaf miners are damaging pests that tunnel through leaves, reducing photosynthesis and weakening plant growth. Their feeding patterns cause visible leaf damage, lower