General Impatiens thrips (Echinothrips americanus) is an increasing problem in greenhouse cultivation, having spread to many countries within the last 30 years. The thrips have mostly been able to spr
Biological control of aphids Aphids are among the most harmful pests in greenhouse and field crops, causing plant stress, virus transmission and yield loss. Effective aphid control is essential for ma
General The green peach aphid ( Myzus persicae subsp. persicae ) is an important insect pest in sweet pepper, tomato, cucumber and many other greenhouse crops. The aphid may originate from Asia, where
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 tobacco whitefly ( Bemisia tabaci ) belongs to the family Aleyrodidae , and the sub-family Aleyrodinae . This insect was first identified on tobacco in Greece in 1889, hence the name tabac
General The western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) is currently the most damaging thrips species in many greenhouse crops. The western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) can be fou
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 citrus mealybug ( Planococcus citri ) has a world-wide distribution and many and diverse host plants. In temperate regions of the world this mealybug poses a problem in greenhouse horticul
Biological control of whitefly Whiteflies are common pests in greenhouse and field crops, feeding on plant sap and transmitting harmful viruses. Their feeding weakens plants, causes leaf yellowing and