Mustard aphids (Lipaphis erysimi) generally congregate on the terminal part of the main stem and the flower buds, peduncles etc. In order to calculate the population of mustard aphids from a selected rapeseed plant, the length of the stem that is covered with aphid colony is to be measured. After that the total number of aphids (both nymphs and adults) have to be counted. After counting the number of aphids present has to be divided by the length taken, to get number of aphids per unit length of stem.
But as this counting of aphids is quite cumbersome, sometimes only the length of the infested part and the total plant length is taken to calculate percentage infestation per plant.
Ahids prefere new shoot but they feed also on the old leave and the stem when the population is high.so take representative leave from the top, middle and lower part. Take half/1cm of the leave/stem then count the aphid.finaly you can calculate the number aphids per leaf/plant
Calculating the exact mustard aphid population on rapeseed plants can be challenging due to their small size and constant movement. However, there are several methods to estimate their population density: Direct counting : This involves physically counting the number of aphids on a representative sample of plants. This method is time-consuming and can be inaccurate for large areas. Sweep sampling : This method involves using an insect net to sweep a specific area of the crop canopy and then counting the dislodged aphids. The number of aphids collected is then extrapolated to estimate the population density per unit area. Yellow pan traps : These traps use yellow sticky cards to attract and trap aphids. The number of aphids trapped over a specific period can be used to estimate the population density in the surrounding area. It's important to note that these methods only provide an estimate of the aphid population, and the accuracy can vary depending on the specific method used and the skill of the person conducting the sampling.
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