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Phytotechnology with Biomass Production
warm climate mealybug M. miscanthi, and for various indigenous coccid species feeding on cereals (Kosztarab & Kozár, 2012). Moving to the root system
under the cover of organic litter Miscanthus mealybug is capable to survive
at air temperature which is much lower than in its natural habitat conditions
(Stefanovska et al., 2017a).
8.2.2 Aphids
Twenty-one aphids are known to use Miscanthus (mostly M. sinensis) as a
host; therefore, there is a potential for aphid damage of the crop. Results of
field study carried out by Semere and Slater (2007) demonstrated domination
of family Aphidiidae among Homoptera. There still is a gap in information about
broad Aphid biodiversity at Miscanthus. The extensive field surveys carried
out in USA (Bradshaw et al., 2010) and laboratory studies (Pallipparambil
et al., 2014) indicated that among the insects reported in Miscanthus, the
yellow sugarcane aphid, Sipha flava Forbes, is a potential pest of M. × giganteus. Sipha flava (Homoptera: Aphididae) is native to North America (Hentz
& Nuessly, 2002) and has been recorded on approximately 60 plant species,
including Cyperaceae, Poaceae, and Commelinaceae (Kindler & Dalrymple, 1999).
8.2.2.1 Identification
Wingless yellow sugarcane aphids and nymphs are 1.3–2 mm in length bright
yellow or green at the low temperature, and the insect body is tightly covered
by hairs. Rows of spots are present down the top and along lateral margins
of the abdomen. The spots’ size and tailpipes are reduced compared to other
aphid species.
8.2.2.2 Life Cycle
The species reproduce by parthenogenesis during the year in warmer climates, but sexual forms occur in regions with cold winters and it can overwinter in eggs. Development to adulthood takes 8–15 days and is highly
dependent on temperature and host plants. This pest has many generations.
8.2.2.3 Damage
The yellow sugarcane aphid causes damage to sorghum, sugarcane, and
several species of lawn pasture grass (Kindler & Dalrymple, 1999). Feeding
initially results in leaves turning to yellow or red, depending on the host
plant and temperature. Prolonged feeding can lead to premature senescence
of leaves and plant or stalk death. Colonies or groups of sugarcane aphids are
located around the midrib of the bottom side. Additionally, sugarcane aphids
are prolific producers of honeydew which supports growth of sooty mold
fungi. Yield reductions commonly occur due to feeding damage to early
plant growth stages (Hentz & Nuessly, 2004), resulting in chlorosis and death