Green aphid (Myzus persicae) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) microbiome diversity in the Taif governorate

Abstract

The green aphid (Myzus persicae) found in Taif governorate is a sap-sucking insect that is found globally. These insects target young leaves, vegetative and flower buds, flowers, and young fruits in both their nymphal and adult stages, causing them to discolor and dry out. They are some of the most destructive and economically significant insect pests globally. In this study, we collected aphids of the genus M. persicae from different regions of the Taif governorate and analyzed their microbial compositions using an API-20E test strip. Five bacterial species were isolated from aphids (Bacillus spp.,Serratia spp., Staphylococcus, Micrococcus spp., and Escherichia coli). Our results showed a significant correlation between M. persicae and microbial communities. Future research should focus on understanding the eco-evolutionary patterns of aphid-symbiont interactions in the Taif Governorate, particularly in biological control.