Identifying and Observing Insects

Joe, an insect science specialist, explains the importance of identifying pests and beneficial insects on horticultural crops, particularly strawberries. He describes where to find these insects on plants, how to identify them, and the signs of infestation. Techniques for observing small insects using magnification are also discussed.

Why is it important to identify insects in horticultural crops?

• To reduce the need for fertilizers

• To identify pests and beneficial insects

• To improve the taste of the crops

• To increase the yield of the crops

What color are adult thrips typically?

• Yellow or grey to black

• Blue or green

• White or brown

• Red or orange

Which insect is known for feeding on flower petals and sometimes damaging the center of the flower?

• Spider mites

• Hoverfly larvae

• Aphids

• Caterpillars

What is a distinguishing feature of mirrored bugs?

• They are bright red

• They have a distinct downwards bend halfway along their back

• They are slow-moving

• They are found only on leaves

What color are two-spotted spider mites?

• Blue with white stripes

• Yellow with orange spots

• Bright red

• Cream or greenish with black spots

Which insect is commonly found on the undersides of leaves and is larger than mites?

• Aphids

• Ladybird larvae

• Thrips

• Caterpillars

What is the recommended magnification for observing small insects?

• 20 times

• 5 times

• 15 times

• 10 times

How can you make insects move to observe them better?

• By shining a bright light on them

• By gently blowing on the flower or flicking it

• By tapping the plant with a stick

• By spraying water on them

What is a sign of a heavy thrip infestation in strawberry flowers?

• Chewed holes on the petals

• Yellow pollen filaments

• Brown discoloration in the center of the flower

• Webbing on the leaves

What precaution should be taken if cyclamen mites are suspected?

• Spray the plants with water

• Avoid moving around other plants after touching infested ones

• Increase the use of fertilizers

• Expose the plants to direct sunlight