The spread of the spotted alfalfa aphid, Therioaphis maculata (Buckton), in California

Smith, R

The spread of the spotted alfalfa aphid, Therioaphis maculata (Buckton), in California

Author

Ray F. Smith

Author Affiliations

Ray F. Smith was Associate Professor of Entomology and Associate Entomologist in the Agricultural Experiment Station, Berkeley.

Publication Information

Hilgardia 28(21):647-685. DOI:10.3733/hilg.v28n21p746. August 1959.

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Abstract

The spotted alfalfa aphid, Therioaphis maculata (Buckton), has spread over a distance of 900 miles to infest 97.5 per cent of California’s alfalfa acreage in the space of four years. This aphid was able to make a rapid spread because of its inherent abilities to disperse and increase and because it found an almost unlimited food supply, few natural enemies, and suitable climatic conditions.

Spread was aided by commerce, but the aphid’s ability to fly increased the rate of spread in most districts. Winds deterred the spread in some areas and increased it in others. Costs of alfalfa production have been increased markedly in the major alfalfaproducing regions.

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