Editors: W.T. Wilsey, C.R. Weeden, and A.M. Shelton

Green Peach Aphid (Myzus persicae) - Life Cycle

Click for larger image	Adults: Green peach aphids are approximately 1/4 inch (2-3 mm) long and vary from colorless to light blue-green or pinkish-red. The body of the aphid is widest at the midsection of its abdomen, giving it an almond-shaped appearance. Adult green peach aphids may be winged or wingless. In the spring, after developing on primary host species of Prunis, female adult aphids reproduce by giving birth to living young.	Click for larger image
	Eggs: In the northeast, green peach aphid overwinters in the egg stage. The eggs are laid only in the fall on the primary host species of Prunis, e.g. peach, plum, cherry, chokecherry, and possibly others. The eggs are very minute (less than 1 mm), black, and shiny.
	Nymphs: The immature green peach aphid is called a nymph and passes through four developmental stages, followed by a pre-reproductive stage before becoming a reproductive adult. The nymphs are similar in color and body shape to the adults, but do not have wings. Since adults in early spring do not have wings, a mature nymph may be confused with a wingless adult. Later in the season, immature forms can be found with winged adults.

Damage to beans inflicted by green peach aphid

Damage to cabbage and crucifers inflicted by green peach aphid

Some information on this page taken from Insects of Potatoes: Factsheet number 102GFS760.10 authored by W. M. Tingey, and J. T. Andaloro.

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Maintained by Jason D. Plate. Last updated Mar. 8th, 2007.