Responses of four coffee varieties to infestations of the aphid Toxoptera aurantii (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
(2025) International Journal of Tropical Insect Science — p. 1-9 (2025)
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Harelimana, Anastase 
- Abstract
- Insect pests can significantly reduce coffee yields. Coffee trees are susceptible to phytophagous insects, including the black citrus aphid Toxoptera aurantii, (Hemiptera: Aphididae). This pest can substantially reduce yields, especially during severe and prolonged infestations. This study aimed to determine the susceptibility of coffee varieties BM71, BM139, Jackson 2/1257, and Pop 3303/21 which are currently being expanded in Rwanda. We analyzed the survivorship, the number of offspring in the F1 generation (∑lxmx), intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm), finite rate of growth (λ), and mean generation time (T) for each variety to assess its susceptibility. Laboratory experiments were followed by field trials in a completely randomized block design with 24 replicates under natural environmental conditions. The number of aphids on the soft upper leaves of each plant was assessed weekly. At the same time, natural enemies were collected and preserved in 70% alcohol for future identification, except for butterflies and entomopathogens. Results revealed significant differences among the coffee varieties. The variety BM71 can be the least susceptible, while Jackson 2/1257 can be the most susceptible, with the other varieties showing moderate susceptibility. The natural enemy communities in the field experiments can be dominated by ladybird beetles, with Cheilomenes lunata and C. sulphurea (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) being the most prevalent species. We recommend further evaluation of the quality of BM71 and its indirect effects on beneficial insects to promote Integrated Pest Management strategies. Studies should also explore ways to enhance the conservation and effectiveness of natural enemies, especially ladybird beetles, to strengthen sustainable pest management practices in coffee farming systems in Rwanda.
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Citations
Harelimana, A., Ntirushwa Rukazambuga, D. T., Migon, M., Le Goff, J. G., & Hance, T. (2025). Responses of four coffee varieties to infestations of the aphid Toxoptera aurantii (Hemiptera: Aphididae). International Journal of Tropical Insect Science, 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42690-025-01474-y (Original work published 2025)