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The potato aphid is relatively large in size. It is generally green in color, it has long cornicles (antennae), a dark longitudinal stripe on its back, long legs and a long cauda (tail). Depending on its host plant, the potato aphid can also be pink or red in color. Its eyes are red. The aphids are 2 to 4 mm in size. These aphids can be found in the young parts of plants, on the stems underneath the leaves. In tomato crops, they are often found at the bottom of the plant. What is notable about this species of aphids is that they drop down easily when disturbed by natural enemies.

As is common for leaf aphids, potato aphids can be both winged as well as wingless. During the spring migration or when the colonies become too large, aphids will be born with wings. This makes it easier for them to move across to other plants. Because potato aphids can be carriers of more than 40 plant viruses, the spread of this aphid can therefore become extra problematic.

Detection products can be used to indicate the presence of aphids in a timely manner.

Potato aphids can reproduce sexually and asexually. Their eggs can survive the winter and hatch in large numbers in the spring. Due to mostly constant temperatures in Dutch greenhouse horticulture, asexual reproduction is most common. The population then consists of females only. The females are viviparous. A female produces about 30-40 nymphs during her lifetime. The nymphs begin to feed on plant saps straight after birth. Their development period is brief and lasts about six to seven days. Reproduction occurs quickly. Potato aphids go through four stages. After each molt, a shed skin is left behind in the crop.

Potato aphid control Potato aphids can be controlled both biologically as well as chemically.

Potato aphid control by using various natural enemies:

• ERVIcontrol: predatory wasp Aphidius ervi
• APHELIcontrol: predatory wasp Aphelinus abdominalis
• APHIDOcontrol: aphid midge Aphidoletes aphidimyza
• CHRYSOcontrol: larvae of the lacewing Chrysoperla carnea
• ADALIAcontrol: adult two spotted ladybug Adalia bipunctata

Effective chemical plant protection products are broad spectrum insecticides such as Batavia and Closer. Another alternative is Requiem Prime. This product can be used in both vegetable and floriculture. For an overview of all permitted products against potato aphids in your crops, you can refer to the Spraying Guide.

Not all methods can be combined with the natural enemies. For information on side effects, please refer to the Agrobío Effects App.

Crop damage caused by potato aphids can also be reduced or prevented by taking extra hygiene measures, or insect netting can be fitted to the air vents. 

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