Aphids

Bitter gourd

Name: Aphids

Scientific Name: Aphis gossypii

Crop: Bitter gourd

Description:

  • Aphid infestation occurs mainly during dry and warm seasons.

Damage Symptoms:

  • Curling and yellowing of leaves.
  • Stunted growth, weakening of the plant, and reduced fruit size.
  • Aphids secrete honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the development of sooty mould fungi on leaves, reducing photosynthesis.

Preventive Measures:

  • Use reflective mulches.
  • Install yellow sticky traps in the field.

Control Measures:

  • Spray Imidacloprid 70 WS at 5 g/kg or Thiamethoxam 70 WS at 4 g/kg.