Main Aphididae species and population dynamics on maize in Jilin Province: a regional study using multiple monitoring methods.

Abstract

In recent years, maize aphids have become the most destructive pests in Jilin Province, Northeast China. However, the patterns of aphid activity remain poorly understood, with systematic monitoring efforts for Aphididae in this region remain insufficient. During 2018 to 2022, multiple methods were used to monitor aphid movements, including a suction trap network in Jilin Province, drones equipped with traps, and adjustable-height yellow sticky traps. In total, 82 aphid species were identified using the suction trap network. In the maize field, 47 and 51 aphid species were captured using drone traps and adjustable-height yellow sticky traps, respectively. Eight aphid species were documented as damaging maize, with field observations of winged and wingless aphids revealing four key pests: Sitobion miscanthi (Takahashi) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch), Aphis gossypii Glover, and Rhopalosiphum padi L. Their migration periods, spatial distributions, local population dynamics, and distribution were recorded. In the field, S. miscanthi was occasionally observed during June to October. For A. gossypii, peak activity occurred during June to July, corresponding to the maize ear development stage, whereas R. maidis and R. padi occurrence peaked from August to September, aligning with the maize reproductive growth stage. The study also identified the population sources of these four aphids. Trajectory simulations for S. miscanthi and R. maidis showed annual invasions by migrants from southern China and the Korean Peninsula. These findings are critical for predicting aphid outbreaks in the region and for informing maize cultivation strategies in affected areas.