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Cotton > Year-Round
IPM Program >
First Open Boll to Preharvest > Natural Enemies of Aphids and Whitefly
Cotton
Natural Enemies of Aphids and Whitefly—First Open Boll to Preharvest
Each name links to more information on identification and biology.
Click on photos to enlarge
Bigeyed bugs
Identification tip: Bigeyed bug adults and nymphs are oval, somewhat flattened, about 1/4 inch (4 mm) long,
usually brownish or yellowish, and have a wide head with prominent bulging eyes. |
Minute pirate bugs
Identification tip: Adults are about small, 1/12 to 1/5 inches (2-5 mm) long, oval, black or purplish with
white markings, and have a triangular head. |
Lacewing larvae
Identification tip: Larvae are flattened, tapered at the tail, measure 1/8 to 4/5 inch (3-20 mm) long, have
distinct legs, and possess prominent mandibles used to attack their prey. |
Syrphid fly larvae
Identification tip: Larvae are legless and maggot-shaped. They vary in color and patterning, but most have
a yellow lengthwise stripe on the back. They can be distinguished from caterpillar larvae by their tapered head,
lack of legs, and their opaque skin, through which internal organs can be seen. |
Lady beetles
Identification tip: Larvae are active, elongate, have long legs, and resemble tiny alligators. |
Parasitized aphid
Identification tip: Look for aphid mummies showing circular exit holes. |
Parasitized whitefly
Identification tip: Circular exit hole on bottom whitefly mummy indicates a parasite has emerged, while
the T-shaped slit on top mummy indicates emergence of a healthy whitefly adult. |
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