The effect of Liriomyza trifolii (Burgess) (Diptera: Agromyzidae) on some leaf characteristics of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

Abstract

Liriomyza trifolii (Burgess) (Diptera: Agromyzidae) is one of the most important pests which affects vegetables and ornamental plants both in Turkey and some parts of the world. This study was conducted to establish effects of L. trifolii on leaf sections, chlorophyll content and water losses in leaves of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). The study was made in greenhouses constructed to grow beans in Aydin during spring in 2007-2008. Leaves of beans were randomly collected at 110 cm height from the ground and classified into groups, namely control (0 larvae), low (1-5 larvae), intermediate (6-15 larvae) and dense (16-25 larvae) larvae number. Area of leaves (cm(2)), ratio of dry matter (mg/cm(2)), loss of water in leaves from 35(th) min until 17(th) hour were measured. As a result of this study, losses in leaf area (98.38%) and decrease in chlorophyll content were found higher due to leafminer damage in the area where the larvae were densely populated (16-25 larvae). Water loss in damaged leaves gradually increased from 3(rd) to 17(th) hours in particular and percentage of dry matter unit decreased in damaged leaves. It was concluded that water loss from leaves increased based on damages in leaf area and its mesophyll layers caused by L. trifolii.