The phytoplasmas cannot be cultured in artificial medium, so molecular tools are very useful in detecting and identifying them. Both are transmitted by certain leafhoppers that feed on phloem sap. Our recent research has emphasized the role of temperature in the expression of disease in plants and the leafhopper transmission of the aster yellows phytoplasmas. Other bacteria are nonessential and do not occur in all aphids. Our goal is to understand why and how these secondary bacteria affect aphid reproduction and survival and if their effects play an important role in aphid biology.
Some aphids are serious pests of crops and ornamentals when they reach high densities on plants.
A better understanding of the forces that govern aphid growth and reproduction might provide new approaches to better controlling aphid pests.