Assessment of the aphids-potato virus vectors distribution in the south of the Arkhangelsk region

Abstract

The publication provides information on the distribution of the aphidofauna complex on potato plantings in the southern part of the Arkhangelsk region. The studies were conducted in 2018–2023.The objectives of the research included studying the species composition, abundance, flight activity of winged aphids and assessing the prevalence of aphids-potential carriers of potato viruses. It was revealed that potato plantings are visited by 13 species of aphids capable of transmitting viral infection – Acyrthosiphum pisum Harr., Aphis fabae Scop., Aphis nasturtii Kalt., Aulacorthum solani Kalt., Brachycaudus helichrysi Kalt., Brevicoryne brassicae L., Cavariella aegopodii Scop., Hyperomyzus lactucae L., Lipaphis erysimi Kalt., Macrosiphum euphorbiae Thomas, Metopolophium dirhodum Walk., Rhopalosiphum padi L., Sitobion avenae F. These species were caught and identified in the plantings throughout the entire potato growing season in numbers from 91 to 197 individuals in different years, which is 71–92% of the total aphid fauna. It should be emphasized that no representatives of Myzus persicae Sulz. species, which is the most harmful to potatoes, were present in the catches. During the observation period, the number of aphid carriers per 1 water trap ranged from 24–50 individuals per year, which characterizes the study region as an area with a low prevalence of aphids capable of carrying potato virus infections. The low prevalence of aphid vectors indicates a favorable phytosanitary situation regarding potato viral infection, but does not completely exclude the possibility of the spread of viruses. Therefore, the potato plant protection system in this region should include both preventive and exterminatory measures.