Bactericera cockerelli

Bactericera cockerelli is a species of insect that belongs to the family Triozidae. Commonly known as the potato psyllid, this insect is a significant pest of potato crops. It is also known to affect other solanaceous plants such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants.

Description

The adult Bactericera cockerelli is a small insect, measuring approximately 2-3mm in length. It has a yellowish-brown body with transparent wings. The nymphs, or immature stages, are flat, oval, and yellowish-green in color.

Distribution

Bactericera cockerelli is native to North America, but has spread to other parts of the world, including New Zealand, Australia, and Central America.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Bactericera cockerelli includes four nymphal stages before reaching adulthood. The entire life cycle can be completed in as little as two weeks under optimal conditions.

Impact on Agriculture

Bactericera cockerelli is a vector of the bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum, which causes zebra chip disease in potatoes. This disease results in significant yield losses and reduced quality of the harvested potatoes.

Management

Management of Bactericera cockerelli involves a combination of strategies including the use of insecticides, cultural practices such as crop rotation and sanitation, and biological control methods.

See Also

• Triozidae
• Potato
• Zebra chip