Aphidius colemani

Description

Aphidius colemani is a parasitoid wasp that specialises in parasiting the green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) and the melon aphid or cotton aphid (Aphis gossypii). This wasp is used extensively in ornamental and greenhouse vegetable crops.

The adult is black with yellow legs. This parasitoid wasp has long antennas and is about 2 mm long. After mating, the female lays her eggs inside juvenile or adult aphids. The larvae of Aphidius colemani grows inside them and feed on the internal organs of the aphid. After 7 days, the aphid becomes immobile, inflates and turns beige. This stage is called mummy. A new adult emerges from the parasitized aphid after a few days.

Aphidius colemani is used in greenhouse and demonstrates great ability to control aphid infestations. It is advisable to use this biocontrol agent as a precaution with the introduction of Aphid Banker Plants. In summer, Aphidius colemani should be used with Aphidoletes aphidimyza or with convergent lady beetle. Control is achieved when 80% of the aphids are parasitized. .