Koppert has released new information about the strain of Myzus persicae (informally called ‘Myzus 2.0’) and how the challenges it could present to growers around the world could be overcome.
The first signs of the new strain of the green peach aphid surfaced when growers noticed that their standard treatments were failing. Consultants began sending aphid samples to our R&D facilities, reporting that even effective chemicals like flonicamid were no longer controlling infestations. Many initially speculated that a different aphid species might be involved due to the pest’s unusual behaviour.
According to Onne Isfordink, a member of Koppert’s R&D team, “At the time, I was working in the department responsible for identifications. Every sample we received required thorough analysis, as growers were facing unprecedented challenges in their crops. Early diagnostics were complex, requiring cross-functional collaboration between labs, field researchers, consultants, as well as cooperation with our partner, Wageningen University, to identify the strain and its unique characteristics.”
Koppert’s strong taxonomic expertise allowed researchers to determine early on that despite rumours suggesting it might be Myzus ornatus, it was still Myzus persicae. This confirmation enabled the team to focus on understanding the changes within this species rather than diverting efforts toward identifying a completely different species.
Myzus 2.0 poses unique challenges not only in the field but also in the lab. The strain showed a reduced sensitivity to previously reliable solutions and exhibited a much faster development rate. This means infestations could quickly overwhelm crops, leaving growers struggling to contain them.
“It’s a very damaging pest, particularly for crops like sweet peppers, but it’s also prevalent in many other crops, like eggplants, cucumbers, and a range of ornamentals,” Isfordink explained. This made the strain a priority for Koppert’s R&D team, which had to adapt its diagnostic protocols and conduct extensive testing to determine the pest’s vulnerabilities. The team identified species like Aphidius matricariae (Aphipar-M) as potential allies in combating the pest. Additionally, adjustments were made to application strategies to ensure maximum effectiveness in varying conditions. The emphasis was however placed on preventive application as the key to effective and cost-efficient pest control.
The company’s latest data indicates that the strain has been identified in multiple countries, including the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Hungary, Poland, Canada and Mexico. Countries like the Netherlands, where the issue first surfaced, have seen a coordinated response with R&D and consultants working closely to mitigate the strain’s effects. However, many growers in other regions remain unaware of the strain’s presence and the protocols needed to address it. “This is a global challenge,” said Isfordink. “We’re working to ensure every region has the tools and knowledge needed to manage Myzus 2.0 effectively.”
