Field assessments of resistance to the aphids Sitobion avenae and Metopolophium dirhodum in old and modern spring‐sown wheats

SUMMARY Three ancient varieties of wheat and two modern spring‐sown cultivars were investigated in the field to assess their resistance to the cereal aphids Sitobion avenae and Metopolophium dirhodum; the monitoring of natural populations and detailed observations using clip‐cages were both undertaken. The ancient variety Einkorn showed both antixenotic and antibiotic resistance to S. avenae, and antibiotic resistance to M. dirhodum. The resistance to S. avenae was greater than that to M. dirhodum. The value of Einkorn as a component of a resistance‐breeding programme is discussed with reference to its agronomic and genetic characteristics and with reference to the pest status of cereal aphids.