Description:

• Aphids become problematic during dry and cool weather, primarily affecting the young parts of the papaya plant. 
• They breed rapidly and, if not controlled, can cause significant yield loss by stunting plant growth and spreading viral diseases.

Damage Symptoms:

• Aphid feeding causes the edges of leaves to curl, distort, and turn yellow around the mid-vein.
• Honeydew produced by aphids leads to the development of sooty mould on leaves, limiting chlorophyll synthesis.
• Heavy infestations result in the production of low-quality fruits.
• Aphids can also transmit Papaya Ringspot Virus (PRSV).

Preventive Measures:

• Install yellow sticky traps in the field.

Control Measures:

• Use neem oil sprays (5 ml/l) to repel aphid infestations.
• Apply Imidacloprid (0.3 ml/l) or Acetamiprid (0.2 g/l).