The composition of Aphidofauna (Hemiptera: Aphidoidae) and their hostplant range in Quetta, Pakistan

This study was carried out during May- October 2018 and accounts as the first record of aphid's biodiversity and their host plant range in Quetta. A total of 50 various host plants from Quetta were sampled, which were identified into 19 species. These most commonly included Rosa chinensis, Nerium oleander, Punica granatum, Solanum nigrum, Ficus carica, and Mirabilis jalapa. About 9,475 aphid individuals were recorded on the sampled host plants from various sites of Quetta, namely accounted as the suburban, urban, cantonment, agricultural research area, and SBK Women's University. After collection, the samples were brought into laboratory, individuals were preserved in 70% alcohol, examined under a microscope (LEICA MZ6) with the help of identification keys. A total of 14 genera identified which included, Toxoptera, Aphis, Myzus, Ceruraphis, Elatobium, Amphorophora, Acyrthosiphon, Hayhurstia, Aphis nerii, Brachycaudus, Macrosiphum euphorbiae, Anoecia, Dysaphis, and Brevicoryne. Among these Aphis, Myzus, Toxoptera, Aphis nerii, and Acrythosiphon were most abundant, while Aphis, Myzus, and Toxoptera were the most common genus in all sampling sites. Since there is a lack of documentation of such vicious pests on the economically significant hostplants from this native region. This study will imply fruitful impacts on pest control in near future.