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Black bean aphid

Black bean aphids are small, herbivorous insects. The tops of broad beans can be full of them.

Also known as:
Blackfly
Bean aphid
Beet leaf aphid

recognize Black bean aphid
Black bean aphid, photo: Rasbak – CC BY-SA 3.0

Black bean aphid (Aphis fabae). Small, black, herbivorous insects up to a maximum of 5 mm. Damage mainly the young leaves.
The damage caused by aphids consists of weakening the plant: juices necessary for growth are sucked away by the aphids. This causes deformations of the leaves (bumps, curls).
The plant sap contains more sugars than the aphids can absorb; the excess is secreted in the form of honeydew. Ants, bees and wasps love it. A fungus develops on honeydew: sooty mold. Aphids also transmit plant viruses.

Where to find

Control

Control with pyrethrum, Insecticidal soap, soapy water spray, rhubarb spray or nettle spray.

Prevention

Natural enemies include: birds, ladybirds, earwigs, parasitoid wasps and lacewings. Nasturtium (trap crop) captures aphids away; aromatic herbs such as southernwood, lavender and marigolds confuse aphids.

operation trap crop
Nasturtium with black bean aphids, photo: PlantEnPlagen

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