Grape Phylloxera
Grape phylloxera, Daktulosphaira vitifoliae, is on of the most destructive grape pests worldwide. It is native to North America and is thought to have been carried to France from imported American varieties. Grape phylloxera feeds on Vitus vinifera species. It will feed on the roots or on the leaves. The phylloxera feeds like an aphid on fluids from the grape roots or leaves. Areas where the insect feeds swell and turn yellowish. Necrotic spots develop at the feeding sites on the roots. The necrotic spots are a result of secondary fungal infections that can girdle roots, killing large sections of the root system. This type of injury causes vines to become stunted and produce less fruit.
page created by Janet Ashley
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Arthropod Pest Management in Fruit Crops