green peach aphid

insect

Also known as: Myzus persicae, spinach aphid

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

The green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) is a yellowish-green aphid that is found worldwide. It is a significant pest because it can transmit plant virus diseases, stunting plant growth and deforming leaves, buds, and flowers.12

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap. They reproduce rapidly, with wingless females giving birth to live young. When their host plant becomes overcrowded, some offspring develop wings and fly to new locations. In cooler climates, they lay eggs that survive the winter, while in warmer regions, reproduction can be continuous.2

Natural predators like ladybird beetles help control aphid populations. However, when infestations are severe, insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, and other insecticides may be used.2

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

aphid
Types of aphids
The green peach aphid (Myzus persicae), also called the spinach aphid, is pale yellow-green with three dark lines on the back. The life cycle involves two hosts. The female reproduces parthenogenetically during summer and produces sexual males and females in autumn. It is a serious pest,…
Read More
The green peach aphid (Myzus persicae), also called the spinach aphid, is pale yellow-green with three dark lines on the back. The life cycle involves two hosts. The female reproduces parthenogenetically during summer and produces sexual males and females in autumn. It is a serious pest,…
Read More