Aspects of the biology of the grain aphid, Macrosiphum miscanthi Tak. 1921

Abstract

Wherever cereals are grown, insect pests will be found damaging the crop. A recent issue of a commercial journal stated that world production of cereals is over 566 million tons, with estimated world losses from insect pests standing at 6.3% of this total, or 27 million tons (Anon. 1969).

Though some insect pests are confined to certain specified geographical areas, aphids occur almost everywhere that cereals are grown. They affect the growing crop in three different ways – by direct feeding, by spreading virus disease, and by causing a deterioration in grain quality. A number of species are involved, all members of the family Aphididae. About six species have assumed major importance and two of these are present and important in New Zealand. They are the cereal aphid Rhopalosiphum padi L., and the grain aphid Macrosiphum miscanthi Tak. 1921.