Effects of different varieties of pepper (Capsicum annum L.) on the biological parameters of the green peach aphid Myzus persicae Sulzer (Hemiptera, Aphididae) in Tunisia

Abstract

The green peach aphid Myzus persicae Sulzer (Hemiptera, Aphididae) is an important pest of pepper, Capsicum annum (Solanaceae), with infestations by this aphid resulting in serious economic damage. Commonly, biological parameters are used to compare insect fitness on different varieties of pepper. Effect of rearing M. persicae on nine varieties of pepper (Anamex, Balconi, Bami, Chargui, Garn ghzel, Italico, J27, Starter and Torero) on the population density and percentage infestation it achieves, and its mean relative growth rate (MRGR) and generation time were studied under laboratory conditions. The highest population density, maximum percentage infestation (92.93%), minimum generation time (10.95 days) and highest MRGR (0.063) were recorded on the variety Chergui and the lowest population density, minimum percentage infestation (51.4%), minimum MRGR (0.043) and maximum generation time on the variety Anamex. For this, we need to know the behaviour of this aphid on different cultivated varieties of pepper in Tunisia and the susceptibility or resistance of these varieties to this aphid. This is a fundamental component of an integrated pest management program for any crop.In the present paper, the biological parameters of M. persicae reared under controlled conditions were studied in order to describe this aphid's behaviour on nine varieties of pepper. Materials and Methods Biological MaterialAphids were collected from a parthenogenetic population on pepper in a field at Chott Mariem in Tunisia (36°48ʹN, 10°11ʹE) and reared for several generations on sweet pepper in a green house at 21 ± 2 °C, HR: 60-80% and under a long day photoperiod (L:D 14:10) (Troncoso et al. 2005). These aphids were needed to infest the pepper plants used in the experiments.Nine varieties of Capsicum annum L. pepper (Anamex, Balconi, Bami, Chargui, Garn ghzel, Italico, J27, Starter and Torero) were used as host plants, which were established from seed sown in 12 cm diameter plastic pots filled with suitable soil. At the 8th leaf stage, plants were infested with M. persicae.

Spatial and Temporal Genetic Diversity of the Peach Potato Aphid Myzus persicae (Sulzer) in Tunisia

“…In Tunisia, M. persicae is the most important aphid pest [14,15], particularly of peach and potato crops [16]. It is the main vector of potyvirus (PVY) and polerovirus (PLRV), the most damaging plant viruses for seed production and tuber health in Tunisia, with transmission efficiency rates of over 95% for the PVY NTN strain and PLRV [17,18,19,20].…”

Endophytic colonization of entomopathogenic Lecanicillium lecanii (Zimm) Zare & Gams PTN 10, and its effect on tobacco resistance against Myzus persicae Sulzer (Hemiptera: Aphididae)

“…Environmental conditions such as temperature are one of the most influential factors on aphid populations [19]. Other factors are the cultivation system [20], plant varieties [21], and the use of chemicals. Intensive use of synthetic insecticide can cause loss of natural enemies and increase the population of aphids.…”

Analysis of Volatile Metabolites from Papaya Seeds as Potential Organic Insecticides against Myzus persicae Sulz

“…Synthetic pesticides have negative effects such as insecticide resistance [13], adverse effects on the environment and non-target organisms such as humans, bees, natural enemies, and others [9]. Research on M. persicae has been carried out on various cultivated plants [4,14]. One way to control it is to choose plant cultivars that are genetically resistant or tolerant [15].…”