Project reference: 1998-01

Multiple-Entry Keys for Identification of Aphids of New Zealand Forest Trees

Project description:

1. Objectives of the Project
   Develop easier identification keys (multiple entry morphometric format) for aphids of importance to forestry in New Zealand

2. Background
   A number of aphid species are important pests of forest trees in New and many species not yet found in New Zealand are potential pests if they become established. Aphid keys are needed to identify and differentiate between pest and non-pests species within New Zealand and to identify potential pests at points of entry.
   
   Multiple entry keys are a useful alternative to dichotomous keys as they simulate the way an expert would identify an organism and are generally simpler and easier to use compared to dichotomous keys.
   
   Aphids have winged and wingless stages. Crop & Food Research personnel have constructed a multiple entry key for apterous (wingless) aphids of economic crop pests in New Zealand including a number of the most important quarantine pests. The construction of a similar key for alate (winged) aphids is in progress. The key for the apterae is crop based but does not include pests of forest tree species; plantation or indigenous. A suitable key for aphid tree pests would add significantly to accurate aphid identification (and hence pest management) in this important area and add to the general usefulness of the already constructed key. The key could include aphids associated with deciduous and conifer plantation forests and indigenous forests.

3. Method
   
   A multiple entry key for selected wingless adult aphids from major tree crops in New Zealand will be developed. Aphids not yet found in New Zealand but considered to be of quarantine importance would also be included. A separate multiple entry key will be developed for winged aphids. Keys will be published together in a suitable format for general use.
   

Research Provider:

Crop & Food Research

View Report summary