Potato aphid
(Macrosiphum euphorbiae)

Overview

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The species Macrosiphum euphorbiae is commonly known as the potato aphid, this species can cause significant yield losses to both potatoes and tomatoes; however, rarely does the infestation result in the death of the plant. The infestation by M. euphorbiae is sporadic in occurrence, though monitoring is extremely important especially for seed potato production, since aphids are well known for there ability to vector viruses. 

Main description

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The Potato aphid at maturity is soft bodied, pear shaped and may be pink, green or a mixture of both in colour. The species is often wingless and measure up to 3.5 mm in length. The nymph is very similar in shape and colour and only slightly smaller than the mature M. euphorbiae. Typically, the respiratory cornicles are longer and thicker as compared to other aphid species, making this species easier to identification.

Scouting

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Scout for the potato aphid from bloom to harvest.