Aphid

Aphids usually up to 2 mm. Aphids are used for spreading. Mass reproduction takes place through unwinged stages.
Most common aphids in rapeseed:
- green peach aphids, almost all year round, important as virus carriers in autiumn.
- mealy cabbage aphid, for ripening in colonies, very low damage potential.
direct damage due to sucking activity only possible in case of heavy mass occurrence. Largest potential for damage due to transmission of the turnip yellows virus (TuYV)

CONTROL BENCHMARK

Use of insecticides against the aphids are often not very effective because of frequent resistance to common groups of active substances (pyrethroids).
Aphids that are hidden on the undersides of the leaves are difficult to control. In case of early heavy infestation, use approved systemic insecticide.
Virus infection (TuYV) causes growth reduction. Reddish coloration of leaf margins may also have other causes (wetness, cold, P deficiency, etc.). Slight yield reductions possible with high infestation.

PREVENTION

Rapeseed varieties with partial virus resistance are more vigorous and yield more stable even under high virus infestation pressure. Even tolerant varieties are able to compensate despite infestation.
Aphids have the most natural enemies. E.g. ichneumon flies, ladybirds, predatory bugs, larvae of hoverflies, certain gall midges, lacewings etc.

Green Peach aphid

Danger due to strong multiplication and transmission of the Turnip Yellows Virus