Comparison of Capsicum annuum and C. pubescens for Antixenosis as a Means of Aphid Resistance

Abstract

Accessions of Capsicum annuum L., a susceptible host, and C. pubescens (R. & P.), a resistant host, were grown in a replicated greenhouse study to test whether antixenosis (nonpreference), antibiosis, or both was the mechanism for resistance to green peach aphid [Myzus persicae (Sulzer)]. A plant choice experiment established that aphids preferred C. annuum to C. pubescens. A no-plant choice test was not undertaken; nevertheless, the aphid's reproductive rates were measured in leaf containment cages and were similar on both hosts. The mechanism of antibiosis was not indicated because fecundity was not reduced in the containment cages; however, other measures of antibiosis were not studied. These observations suggest that antixenosis may be functioning in C. pubescens.